Travel | The Guardianhttps://www.theguardian.com/us/travel
Latest travel news and reviews on US and world holidays, travel guides to global destinations, city breaks, hotels and restaurant information from the Guardian, the world's leading liberal voiceen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2016Fri, 09 Dec 2016 18:06:47 GMT2016-12-09T18:06:47Zen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2016The Guardianhttps://assets.guim.co.uk/images/guardian-logo-rss.c45beb1bafa34b347ac333af2e6fe23f.pnghttps://www.theguardian.com
Top 10 festive pubs in the UKhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/09/top-10-festive-pubs-in-uk-for-christmas-drinks
<p>From pubs famous for Christmas parties to cosy hideaways where you can escape the crowds, here are 10 city-centre boozers serving great beers for a festively good time<br><br>• <strong>Suggest your own favourite in the comments. And, cheers!</strong></p><p>Train stations are rarely as convivial as they are at Christmas. People are heading home for the holidays. Giddy colleagues are parting after long, boozy afternoons. Many are, basically, “in their cups” and far happier and chattier than normal. There are few better places to soak up this atmosphere than the Sheffield Tap, a beautiful Edwardian Grade II-listed refreshment rooms on Sheffield station, now reborn as a craft beer hub. Beyond its tapped beers – brewed on-site on a small gleaming copper kit – the Tap tends to focus on the best new-wave northern breweries. It is particularly tight with Derbyshire’s Thornbridge. Don’t blame us if you miss your train. Or the next one.<br>• <em>Pint from £3.20. 1B Sheffield Station, Sheaf Street, 0114 273 7558, </em><a href="http://www.sheffieldtap.com/"><em>sheffieldtap.com</em></a><em>. Open Sun-Thurs 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight</em></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/09/top-10-festive-pubs-in-uk-for-christmas-drinks">Continue reading...</a>Food and drinkUnited Kingdom holidaysBars and clubsTop 10sTravelPubsBeerFood & drinkLife and styleFri, 09 Dec 2016 06:30:21 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/09/top-10-festive-pubs-in-uk-for-christmas-drinksPhotograph: The House of Trembling MadnessPhotograph: The House of Trembling MadnessTony Naylor2016-12-09T06:30:21ZLyon's Fête des Lumières returns for 2016 amid tight securityhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/09/lyons-fete-des-lumieres-returns-for-2016-amid-tight-security
<p>With an increased security presence, the city’s annual festival of lights has been opened by France’s new prime minister, a year after it was cancelled following the Paris attacks</p><p>Lyon’s festival of lights has been opened by France’s new prime minister amid tight security a year after the the city cancelled the annual event following terrorist attacks in Paris.</p><p>Bernard Cazeneuve, who was <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/dec/06/bernard-cazeneuve-named-french-pm-as-manuel-valls-resigns">appointed prime minister earlier this week</a>, said on Thursday: “This evening, millions of visitors will demonstrate the resilience that is the strength of your city and our country.”</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/09/lyons-fete-des-lumieres-returns-for-2016-amid-tight-security">Continue reading...</a>Lyon holidaysFestivalsFrance holidaysEurope holidaysTravelFranceFestivalsFri, 09 Dec 2016 13:42:49 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/09/lyons-fete-des-lumieres-returns-for-2016-amid-tight-securityPhotograph: Brice Robert PhotographePhotograph: Brice Robert PhotographeHarriet Sherwood2016-12-09T13:42:49Z‘Standing by the Bosphorus gives me goosebumps’: Jason Goodwin's Istanbulhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/09/istanbul-turkey-bosphorus-jason-goodwin-why-i-love-byzantine-history
<p>For the novelist, Istanbul is rich in Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman history, and is a place where Russian submarines, supertankers and tourist boats all glide through the heart of the city</p><p><strong>I first came to Istanbul on a wave of youthful romanticism</strong>, making my way across eastern Europe on foot, treading woodland paths from the Baltic to the Bosphorus. I was 26 years old. I stood beneath the dome of <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/nov/08/istanbul-city-guide-eat-drink-hotels-galleries">Aya Sofia</a> in awe. The bread in the cafes was dazzlingly fresh, the mackerel straight from the boat, and in the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/blog/2012/sep/27/grand-bazzar-istanbul-restaurants-eating">Grand Bazaar</a> a concoction of mint and chicken blew away months of dreary, Soviet-style meals.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/09/istanbul-turkey-bosphorus-jason-goodwin-why-i-love-byzantine-history">Continue reading...</a>Istanbul holidaysTurkey holidaysEurope holidaysCity breaksTravelFri, 09 Dec 2016 11:55:34 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/09/istanbul-turkey-bosphorus-jason-goodwin-why-i-love-byzantine-historyPhotograph: Dmytro Kosmenko/Getty Images/iStockphotoPhotograph: Dmytro Kosmenko/Getty Images/iStockphotoInterview by Caroline Eden2016-12-09T11:55:34ZA quest for tribes: the world's indigenous peoples – in pictureshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/dec/08/indigenous-peoples-jimmy-nelson-exhibition-brussels-in-pictures
<p>Jimmy Nelson spent four years documenting the world’s indigenous cultures for his Before They Pass Away project. This week, new and archive images go on display at Brussels’ <a href="http://www.la-photographie-galerie.com/">La Photographie Galerie</a></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/dec/08/indigenous-peoples-jimmy-nelson-exhibition-brussels-in-pictures">Continue reading...</a>Travel photographyTravelPhotographyArt and designThu, 08 Dec 2016 06:30:08 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/dec/08/indigenous-peoples-jimmy-nelson-exhibition-brussels-in-picturesPhotograph: Jimmy NelsonPhotograph: Jimmy NelsonThe Guardian2016-12-08T06:30:08Z10 of the best winter city breaks in Europe: readers’ travel tipshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/08/10-best-winter-city-breaks-europe-readers-travel-tips
<p>Glühwein and hot chocolate, snowy views, empty museums and comfort food … Guardian readers pick the best European cities for an atmospheric winter holiday</p><p>The best way to see Zurich is from the top of its own mini mountain, Uetliberg, from where you get a view of the whole city, the lake and the countryside with mountains in the distance. It’s particularly magical in winter when everything is dusted with snow and the toboggan run is open – two miles of downhill fun from Uetliberg to Triemli! You can hop on a direct train from Zurich main station to the mountaintop, which takes just 20 minutes and costs CHF8.60 (around £7) one way. Take in the views and then hire a sledge for the journey down the Schlittelweg. Night sledding with flashlights is also on offer for those who want to take it up a notch. Finish off a day of outdoor fun on the mountain over a cheese fondue or with a glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate at one of the many Christmas markets around the city.<br><strong>Nicenumber</strong></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/08/10-best-winter-city-breaks-europe-readers-travel-tips">Continue reading...</a>City breaksEurope holidaysFood and drinkWinter sports holidaysShort breaksTravelWinter food and drinkWeekend breaksTop 10sThu, 08 Dec 2016 12:56:56 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/08/10-best-winter-city-breaks-europe-readers-travel-tipsPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoGuardian readers2016-12-08T12:56:56ZSign up for The Flyerhttps://www.theguardian.com/info/ng-interactive/2016/dec/07/sign-up-for-the-flyer
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/info/ng-interactive/2016/dec/07/sign-up-for-the-flyer">Continue reading...</a>InformationWed, 07 Dec 2016 09:31:29 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/info/ng-interactive/2016/dec/07/sign-up-for-the-flyerIllustration: Frank Hulley-JonesIllustration: Frank Hulley-JonesGuardian Staff2016-12-07T09:31:29ZIn the heart of Madrid, El Campo de Cebada offers a space for allhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/07/madrid-la-latina-district-el-campo-de-la-cebada-a-great-little-place-i-know
<p>A hole where a swimming pool once stood has become a community focal point for the residents of Madrid’s La Latina district</p><p>At the crossroads in La Latina, the old-town barrio at the heart of Madrid, a scruffy blue-and-white painted fence of corrugated steel runs the curve of the corner. Peer through a porthole, and you’ll find yourself looking down into a wide, space of poured concrete and graffiti, scattered with tiered benches, a basketball hoop at either end. This is El Campo de la Cebada, a community space created <em>por y para los vecinos </em>– for and by the neighbours – when the local authority demolished the swimming pool. The money for a new one ran out early in the project, leaving a gaping 5,500-metre scar.</p><p>Here, raucous, friendly teenagers gather on the benches, watching street performers practising their juggling. Couples sprawl between the railway-sleeper garden boxes, sharing bocadillos de calamares (squid rolls). A homeless man finds a place to sit, away from the road. Solitary readers, such as myself, inch around, following the sun, occasionally looking up to listen. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/07/madrid-la-latina-district-el-campo-de-la-cebada-a-great-little-place-i-know">Continue reading...</a>Madrid holidaysCity breaksSpain holidaysPodemosTravelEurope holidaysWed, 07 Dec 2016 13:20:32 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/07/madrid-la-latina-district-el-campo-de-la-cebada-a-great-little-place-i-knowPhotograph: El Campo de la CebadaPhotograph: El Campo de la CebadaMartha Sprackland2016-12-07T13:20:32ZParis hopes to raise €100,000 for refugees with love locks salehttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/paris-sell-love-locks-bridges-proceeds-to-refugees
<p>The 65 tonnes of love locks removed from Paris’s bridges in the last 18 months are to be sold – and could raise €100,000 for refugee groups</p><p>For the past two years, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/gallery/2015/jun/02/paris-padlocks-lovepont-des-arts-bridge-removed-in-pictures">Paris has committed itself to taking on the love lock trend</a>, in which couples, particularly tourists, attach padlocks to the city’s bridges as a symbol of their love. </p><p>And since the authorities made the decision to start removing them 18 months ago – cutting down an incredible one million padlocks in the process – it has been left with 65 tonnes of scrap metal to deal with.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/paris-sell-love-locks-bridges-proceeds-to-refugees">Continue reading...</a>Paris holidaysFrance holidaysEurope holidaysTravelParisFranceEuropeTue, 06 Dec 2016 15:58:43 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/paris-sell-love-locks-bridges-proceeds-to-refugeesPhotograph: Jacques Demarthon/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Jacques Demarthon/AFP/Getty ImagesWill Coldwell2016-12-06T15:58:43ZArtsy Asheville tops list of must-see US destinations for 2017https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/artsy-asheville-tops-list-of-lonely-planet-must-see-us-destinations-2017
<p>Lonely Planet puts the North Carolina city first in its ‘best in the US’ list for the coming year, with strong competition from Twin Peaks location western Washington and Lincoln, Nebraska</p><p>Forget the Big Apple: if you’re planning a trip to the US in 2017, Asheville, North Carolina, needs to be on the itinerary, according to travel guide publisher Lonely Planet.</p><p>The city in <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/sep/24/blue-ridge-mountains-music-road-trip-virginia-bluegrass-old-time">the Blue Ridge Mountains</a>, which has a thriving arts, architecture and music scene, has been selected as the number one US destination for next year by Lonely Planet, topping its annual list of the most exciting places to visit in the US.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/artsy-asheville-tops-list-of-lonely-planet-must-see-us-destinations-2017">Continue reading...</a>United States holidaysNorth and Central America holidaysCity breaksTravelUS newsTue, 06 Dec 2016 17:44:22 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/artsy-asheville-tops-list-of-lonely-planet-must-see-us-destinations-2017Photograph: jaredkay/Getty Images/iStockphotoPhotograph: jaredkay/Getty Images/iStockphotoWill Coldwell2016-12-06T17:44:22Z48 hours on the Sunshine Coast: even storms can't spoil an idyllic escapehttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/48-hours-on-the-sunshine-coast-even-storms-cant-spoil-an-idyllic-escape
<p>Famous for long beaches and unspoilt nature reserves, Noosa and Maleny are also great getaways for foodies, shoppers and those seeking tranquility</p><p>Noosa has long been the jewel of the Sunshine Coast. The main drag of Hastings Street is a triumph of sensitive planning, with its canopy of trees, excellent boutiques and restaurants, and low-rise buildings overlooking the beach.<br></p><p>And what a beach! The long, beautiful sweep of sand stretches to the national park and is suitable for surfing and swimming. Along the beachfront there are a couple of great cafes. One of the pleasures of Noosa is to emerge from an early-morning swim then get a great coffee only a few steps away.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/48-hours-on-the-sunshine-coast-even-storms-cant-spoil-an-idyllic-escape">Continue reading...</a>Queensland holidaysTravelAustralia holidaysSunshine CoastAustralasia holidaysAustralia newsQueenslandAustralia travel blogTue, 06 Dec 2016 02:33:17 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/48-hours-on-the-sunshine-coast-even-storms-cant-spoil-an-idyllic-escapePhotograph: Visit Sunshine CoastPhotograph: Visit Sunshine CoastBrigid Delaney2016-12-06T02:33:17ZLet’s go to … Ramsbottom, Greater Manchesterhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/05/ramsbottom-greater-manchester-christmas-shopping
<p>This pretty market town in lovely West Pennines countryside has several Christmas events, adding to the appeal of its quality shops, pubs and bistros</p><p><strong>Why go now?<br></strong>For Christmas shopping in the former mill town’s independent shops, farmer’s market (11 December) or Christmas street market (17-18 December), where there’ll be ice-skating, too.</p><p><strong>What else is there to do?<br></strong>Ride a steam train along the East Lancashire Railway between Heywood and Bury – there are <a href="http://www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk/events-activities/2016/11/santa-specials.aspx">Santa Specials</a> this month, with brass bands, carol singing, presents and mince pies. Take a winter walk up Holcombe Hill to <a href="http://www.visitnorthwest.com/sights/peel-tower/">Peel Tower</a>, a memorial to the former prime minister and Metropolitan police founder, Robert Peel. Explore the <a href="http://www.irwellsculpturetrail.co.uk/">Irwell Sculpture trail</a>, 70 outdoor artworks from Bacup to Salford Quays – the Ramsbottom “cluster” has two in the Irwell Valley, one by the river and another in the town centre. Drive over to Bolton for its <a href="http://www.visitbolton.com/winterfestival/">winter festival</a>, which includes a 55-metre snow slide.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/05/ramsbottom-greater-manchester-christmas-shopping">Continue reading...</a>Manchester holidaysUnited Kingdom holidaysLancashire holidaysShopping tripsChristmas marketsChristmasChristmas and New Year holidaysTravelMon, 05 Dec 2016 10:00:20 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/05/ramsbottom-greater-manchester-christmas-shoppingPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoRachel Dixon2016-12-05T10:00:20ZSri Lanka's best new hotels, hostels and cottageshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/03/sri-lanka-best-new-hotels-hostels-campsite
<p>A tea plantation bungalow, surfer hostel, cottage near the beach and off-grid lodge are among our picks of great new places to stay in Sri Lanka</p><p><strong> </strong>For families, <strong>Thalpe Bungalows</strong>, south-east of Galle, are an affordable alternative to renting a villa. Each of the three one-bedroom cottages also has a lounge, with fold-out beds for two children, kitchen area and long veranda overlooking a leafy walled garden with central pool. Friendly owners Murray and Seema live on site with their young daughter, and will share additional equipment for children on request. The swimmable lagoon at Dalawella beach is a 25-minute walk away. <br>• <em>Bungalows from £76 B&amp;B, </em><a href="http://www.thalpebungalows.com/the-bungalows"><em>thalpebungalows.com</em></a></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/03/sri-lanka-best-new-hotels-hostels-campsite">Continue reading...</a>Sri Lanka holidaysHotelsAsiaHostelsCamping holidaysBudget travelTravelSat, 03 Dec 2016 07:30:16 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/03/sri-lanka-best-new-hotels-hostels-campsitePhotograph: PRPhotograph: PREmma Boyle2016-12-03T07:30:16ZEisbein: knuckling down to Berlin’s traditional pork feasthttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/04/berlin-germany-eisbein-pork-dish
<p>Known, fittingly, as ‘ice leg’ in German – it can look a bit anaemic – this pickled and boiled meat dish is a big favourite with locals and the odd visiting celeb</p><p>It ranges in colour from bright pink to blanched, and usually comes with a scoop of green mush. <em>Eisbein</em>, or boiled and cured pork knuckle, may not sound very appetising, but in Berlin it’s a beloved traditional feast.</p><p>Around Germany, pork knuckle is known as <em>schweinshaxe</em> and is usually roasted, coming out with a crispy skin. But that’s a far cry from how it’s served in Berlin – which in truth does not look all that appetising: a paleish pink hock on a scruffy bed of sauerkraut (the name eisbein, which means “ice leg” definitely fits). But eaten with pea purée and a squirt of good mustard, it’s a delightful combination: rich, tender and salty, and as hedonistic as Berlin itself.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/04/berlin-germany-eisbein-pork-dish">Continue reading...</a>Berlin holidaysFood and drinkGermany holidaysFood & drinkSun, 04 Dec 2016 11:00:12 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/04/berlin-germany-eisbein-pork-dishPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRBarbara Woolsey2016-12-04T11:00:12Z10 of the best London pubs for the Christmas seasonhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/02/10-best-london-pubs-at-christmas
<p>A Christmas drink, be it mulled, pulled or poured, comes with an extra splash of seasonal cheer at these classic London pubs, where the festive season is celebrated in style</p><p>Start by stepping into a Christmas tree. The evergreen Churchill Arms on Kensington Church Street becomes one enormous conifer each December. This year the pub is strapping 80 Christmas trees to its exterior walls and decorating them with 18,000 fairy lights. The spectacular light show will be ceremonially started on Tuesday 6 December, accompanied by mulled wine and festivities. If you get peckish afterwards, go through to the Thai restaurant. The Churchill Arms was the first London pub to sport a Thai kitchen; the Pad Siew noodles are recommended.<br>•<em> </em><a href="http://www.churchillarmskensington.co.uk/"><em>churchillarmskensington.co.uk</em></a></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/02/10-best-london-pubs-at-christmas">Continue reading...</a>London holidaysFood and drinkBars and clubsDay tripsEngland holidaysUnited Kingdom holidaysTravelPubsBeerFood & drinkLife and styleFri, 02 Dec 2016 06:30:08 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/02/10-best-london-pubs-at-christmasPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoHenry Eliot2016-12-02T06:30:08ZJoin Antwerp’s party people at its Plein Publiek pop-uphttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/30/antwerp-party-plein-publiek-pop-up-bar-restaurant-gallery
<p>A vacant apartment complex in northern Belgium has been transformed into Plein Publiek, a gallery, restaurant and venue</p><p>Pop-ups are two-a-penny these days but in Antwerp, Plein Publiek, a new venture that combines a restaurant, gallery, work-out space and rave-y nightclub is luring party-goers, yogies, art lovers and more – and it’s going to be around until at least next May.<br></p><p>Plein Publiek is in a disused block of flats in gentrified Antwerp Zuid, known for chaotic antique stores and the Museum of Contemporary Art. The building is owned by the city council and is awaiting renovation in 2018. In the meantime, Plein Publiek is hosting flea markets, yoga classes and Sunday brunches, and there are art exhibitions in some of the vacant flats. Others are available as rehearsal rooms. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/30/antwerp-party-plein-publiek-pop-up-bar-restaurant-gallery">Continue reading...</a>Antwerp holidaysBelgium holidaysEurope holidaysBars and clubsCity breaksTravelWed, 30 Nov 2016 12:30:18 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/30/antwerp-party-plein-publiek-pop-up-bar-restaurant-galleryPhotograph: Robin De RaedtPhotograph: Robin De RaedtRichard Mellor2016-11-30T12:30:18ZTop 10 budget beach hotels and B&Bs on Mexico’s Pacific coasthttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/nov/18/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-mexico-pacific-coast-bed-breakfast
<p>Enjoy ocean views from rooftop bars or just step out and get the sand between your toes. From Mazatlán to Pochutla, here are 10 charming beachside escapes</p><p>Mexico’s Pacific coast, more than 1,000 miles of it, is renowned for its beaches, as well as the resorts which have attracted Hollywood royalty. However, it’s also an area that can experience tropical storms, usually between June and December. The most recent was <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/oct/24/hurricane-patricia-batters-mexico-with-165mph-winds-rain-and-storm-surges">Hurricane Patricia</a>, the strongest hurricane ever recorded at sea, which swept across the region at the end of October, but caused less damage than anticipated. Hotels are now operating as normal. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/nov/18/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-mexico-pacific-coast-bed-breakfast">Continue reading...</a>Mexico holidaysBudget travelHotelsBed and breakfastsNorth and Central America holidaysTop 10sTravelWed, 18 Nov 2015 06:30:00 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/nov/18/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-mexico-pacific-coast-bed-breakfastPhotograph: Danita Delimont/AlamyPhotograph: Danita Delimont/AlamyChristine Delsol2015-11-18T06:30:00ZTop 10 budget beach hotels, guesthouses and hostels on the Yucatán peninsula, Mexicohttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/feb/16/yucatan-mexico-budget-beach-hotels-hostels
<p>Well-known and deservedly popular for its jungle, coast and ancient ruins, the Yucatán peninsula can be a pricey place to stay – unless you pick one of these brilliant budget hotels and hostels</p><p>On the surface, this mid-size hotel in Cancún’s hotel zone is pretty unremarkable. The tile-floored rooms are big and clean, with terraces or balconies – though they’re not notably stylish. The restaurant is good, not gourmet. The pool is a sensible size. But set this against its glitzy, high-rise neighbours and check the rates, which are often lower than similarly appointed hotels on the mainland, 30 minutes from the water – and Beachscape starts looking pretty good. Then walk out on to the palm-shaded beach, one of the prettiest stretches in the hotel zone, and the place becomes a minor miracle.<br> <em>• Doubles from $109, +52 998 891 5427, </em><em><a href="http://www.beachscape.com.mx/default-en.html">beachscape.com.mx</a><br></em></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/feb/16/yucatan-mexico-budget-beach-hotels-hostels">Continue reading...</a>Mexico holidaysBeach holidaysHotelsNorth and Central America holidaysBudget travelHostelsBed and breakfastsWinter sunTravelTop 10sMon, 16 Feb 2015 06:00:10 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/feb/16/yucatan-mexico-budget-beach-hotels-hostelsPhotograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyZora O'Neill2015-02-16T06:00:10ZTop 10 budget beach B&Bs in the Seychelleshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/jan/26/top-10-budget-bed-breakfast-beach-seychelles
<p>The Seychelles islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue may be known for their luxury resorts but there is also a great selection of family-run, more affordable guesthouses just as close to the archipelago’s famous, world-class beaches</p><p>For a room with a five-star view, Colibri is hard to beat. Nine rustic rooms – all wood and stone – ensconced amid tropical foliage that tumbles down a hillside to the turquoise waters of Baie Sainte Anne. There’s no beach but you can use the small infinity pool overlooking the bay at neighbouring B&amp;B Chalets Cote Mer, also owned by Sylvie and Stephan, and costing about €10 more a night. You also share the waterfront creole restaurant. The owners can help with car hire but it’s a five-minute walk to a bus stop – which will take you to Praslin’s most famous beach Anse Lazio and the Unesco-protected <a href="http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/261">Vallée de Mai nature reserve</a> – and the jetty for ferries to Mahé and La Digue.<br>• <em>Doubles from £112 B&amp;B, +248 429 4200, </em><em><a href="http://www.colibrisweethome.com/en">colibrisweethome.com</a></em></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/jan/26/top-10-budget-bed-breakfast-beach-seychelles">Continue reading...</a>Seychelles holidaysAfrica holidaysBed and breakfastsHotelsBudget travelBeach holidaysTop 10sTravelMon, 26 Jan 2015 06:00:01 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/jan/26/top-10-budget-bed-breakfast-beach-seychellesPhotograph: Jorgen Andersson/PRCarana Hilltop Villa, Mahé Photograph: Jorgen AnderssonPhotograph: Jorgen Andersson/PRCarana Hilltop Villa, Mahé Photograph: Jorgen AnderssonSarah Gilbert2015-01-26T06:00:01ZTop 10 budget beach guesthouses and B&Bs in South Africa's Western Capehttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/jan/05/top-10-budget-beach-stays-hotels-south-africa-western-cape
<p>From Cape Town and its peninsula to the Garden Route and the West Coast, the Western Cape is a dazzling part of South Africa, and its beachside accommodation doesn’t have to break the bank</p><ul><li><strong><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/dec/08/top-10-south-africa-east-coast-places-to-stay">Top 10 budget beach stays in Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal</a></strong></li></ul> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/jan/05/top-10-budget-beach-stays-hotels-south-africa-western-cape">Continue reading...</a>South Africa holidaysBeach holidaysBudget travelAfrica holidaysTop 10sTravelMon, 05 Jan 2015 05:59:08 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/jan/05/top-10-budget-beach-stays-hotels-south-africa-western-capePhotograph: /AlamyThe West Coast town of Yzerfontein, north of Cape Town. Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: /AlamyThe West Coast town of Yzerfontein, north of Cape Town. Photograph: AlamyEmma Gregg2015-01-05T05:59:08ZTop 10 budget beach stays in Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, South Africahttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/dec/08/top-10-south-africa-east-coast-places-to-stay
<p>Our pick of eco-lodges, cool guesthouses and rondavels make ideal bases for exploring South Africa’s Indian Ocean coast<br><br>• <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/oct/06/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-bungalows-bali-lombok"><strong>Top 10 budget beach stays in Bali and Lombok</strong></a><br>• <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/jul/03/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-campsites-croatia"><strong>Top 10 budget beach hotels and villas in Croatia</strong></a></p><p><strong>Swell Eco Lodge, Mngcibe</strong><br>Offering a stylish and serene alternative to the sometimes rowdy backpacker lodges in nearby Coffee Bay, Swell Eco Lodge is a clutch of thatched rondavels on a grassy hillside at the mouth of the Mdumbi river, with sweeping ocean views. Each unit is spacious, with handmade furniture and cute, upcycled touches, such as plant pots and toothbrush holders made from old cans and jamjars. Power comes from a wind turbine, and the lodge conserves mains water thanks to a borehole and rainwater collection tanks. It’s a wonderfully remote spot – at night you’re dazzled by a dome of stars.<br><em>• Self-catering rondavels for two from £38, +27 72 346 5636, </em><a href="http://www.swellecolodge.com/"><em>swellecolodge.com</em></a></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/dec/08/top-10-south-africa-east-coast-places-to-stay">Continue reading...</a>South Africa holidaysBeach holidaysBudget travelBed and breakfastsHotelsAfrica holidaysTop 10sTravelMon, 08 Dec 2014 06:00:06 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/dec/08/top-10-south-africa-east-coast-places-to-stayPhotograph: PRSwell Eco Lodge, Mngcibe, South AfricaPhotograph: PRSwell Eco Lodge, Mngcibe, South AfricaEmma Gregg2014-12-08T06:00:06ZTop 10 budget beach hotels, villas and bungalows in Bali and Lombokhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/oct/06/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-bungalows-bali-lombok
<p>Surf and diver pads, yoga retreats and stylish cabanas on deserted beaches … there are plenty of ways to get away from it all on Bali and neighbouring Lombok</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/oct/06/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-bungalows-bali-lombok">Continue reading...</a>Bali holidaysIndonesia holidaysAsiaTravelTop 10sBeach holidaysHotelsBudget travelMon, 06 Oct 2014 06:00:02 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/oct/06/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-bungalows-bali-lombokPhotograph: PRManta Dive Gili Air is the perfect place to sink into a tropical torpor.Photograph: PRManta Dive Gili Air is the perfect place to sink into a tropical torpor.Johnny Langenheim2014-10-06T06:00:02ZTop 10 budget beach hotels, villas and campsites in Croatiahttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/jul/03/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-campsites-croatia
Finding a prime spot on Croatia's coast in summer on a budget is no mean feat. Our picks range from a seafront villa on sandy car-free Lopud island to a bargain find in hip Hvar<p>Croatia has a short and intense high season. All prices cited here are valid for stays from mid-June to late August. Note that rates drop dramatically – sometimes by up to 50% – out of season. Beaches are rare in rocky Croatia, so these top 10 picks book out far in advance.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/jul/03/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-campsites-croatia">Continue reading...</a>Croatia holidaysBeach holidaysHotelsEurope holidaysTravelTop 10sCamping holidaysBudget travelBed and breakfastsThu, 03 Jul 2014 05:01:00 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/jul/03/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-campsites-croatiaPhotograph: PRAptly named Hotel Solitudo is the only hotel on Croatia's remote Lastovo islandPhotograph: PRAptly named Hotel Solitudo is the only hotel on Croatia's remote Lastovo islandKathryn Tomasetti2014-07-03T05:01:00ZTop 10 budget beach hotels, hostels and campsites near Vancouver, British Columbiahttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/jun/25/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-hostels-vancouver-british-columbia
British Columbia's rugged beaches offer everything from wild camping to luxury lodges. All these places to stay near Vancouver start at under £100 a night<p>A whiff of military utilitarianism still permeates the basic private rooms of this converted 1930s air force barracks, 20 minutes from downtown Vancouver, set amongst the beachside blackberry bushes. But the imposing white HI Jericho Beach hostel also retains the convivial air that wafted around the decommissioned base when it was squatted by hippies and became the Cool Aid commune in 1970. After the "Battle of Jericho", in which the squatters were evicted, in 1971 it was converted into a 300-bed hostel, the largest in North America. Hippies, students and travellers still frequent the beach and a popular pursuit is sailing off into the sunset on a stand-up paddleboard; heading across English Bay towards the mountain-framed downtown peninsula. <br>• <em>+1 778 328 2220,</em> <a href="http://www.hihostels.ca/westerncanada/168/hi-vancouver_jericho_beach.hostel" title=""><em>hihostels.ca</em></a><em>, Private rooms sleeping two from C$67 (£37) low season to $105 (£57) high season; dorms from C$28 (£15). Open May to September </em></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/jun/25/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-hostels-vancouver-british-columbia">Continue reading...</a>Beach holidaysTravelHostelsNorth and Central America holidaysTop 10sVancouver holidaysHotelsCanada holidaysWed, 25 Jun 2014 05:54:00 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/jun/25/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-hostels-vancouver-british-columbiaPhotograph: AlamyOn the wild side … a beach near Tofino, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyOn the wild side … a beach near Tofino, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Photograph: AlamyAmy Watkins2014-06-25T05:54:00ZTop 10 budget beach hotels in Andalucía, Spain: part twohttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/mar/25/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-costa-de-la-luz-spain
Spain's Costa de la Luz offers beach after golden beach. Here's our pick of the best affordable seaside hotels from Cádiz to Tarifa, from the family-friendly to wind and kitesurfing hangouts<br /><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/11/andalucia-best-budget-beach-hotels">• Part one: Andalucía from Malaga to Mojácar</a><p>The Hotel Fuerte Conil can't be called budget in high season, when prices rocket, but, for anyone lucky enough not to have school-age children, it can be a bargain in autumn or spring. It's part of a small chain but despite the fact it has a whopping 469 spacious rooms, the hotel has lots of personal touches, including a botanical garden complete with a random pony keeping the grass short. Inside, it has the feel of a kind of a sprawling Roman palace, the two outdoor pools shielded from the wind by the gleaming white buildings that surround them. For anyone who inexplicably wants to leave, Fontanilla beach is directly beneath the hotel and the centre of Conil, a likeable, white-washed fishing town, is just a few minutes' walk away.<br>• <em>0800 021 1397, </em><a href="http://www.fuertehoteles.com/en/hotels/resort-fuerte-conil-costaluz/" title=""><em>fuertehoteles.com/conil-cadiz</em></a><em>, doubles from €61</em></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/mar/25/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-costa-de-la-luz-spain">Continue reading...</a>Spain holidaysBeach holidaysAndalucia holidaysEurope holidaysTravelBudget travelTop 10sTue, 25 Mar 2014 13:21:44 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/mar/25/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-costa-de-la-luz-spainPhotograph: PRHotel Fuerte Conil on Spain's Costa de la LuzPhotograph: PRHotel Fuerte Conil on Spain's Costa de la LuzTrevor Baker2014-03-25T13:21:44ZTop 10 budget beach hotels and guesthouses in Sri Lankahttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/feb/26/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-guesthouses-sri-lanka
Sri Lanka has some of Asia's loveliest, most surf-able beaches – and plenty of affordable places to stay. Here are 10 of the best hotels and guesthouses, starting at just £5 a night<p>This simple collection of rooms has been around for almost 25 years, and the atmosphere is pure surfer-casual – which is appropriate, given that Arugam Bay is Sri Lanka's surf hotspot. Seven rustic treehouses on stilts have views and cool breezes, and there are six more rooms on the ground (some have shared bathrooms, ask before you book). The popular restaurant turns out set lunches of fresh Sri Lankan seafood and hosts barbecues on Friday nights – grab a seat at the long communal table and strike up a chat with some of the surfers who have been coming to stay with legendary owner Ranga for decades. A loosely fenced-in outdoor area has tables and hammocks interspersed with scrubby trees just a few metres from the sea – the perfect place to hang loose with a lassi. <br><em>• +94 773 179 594, </em><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/THE-BEACH-HUT-ARUGAM-BAY/295237929786" title=""><em>Facebook page</em></a><em>, double rooms from £10</em></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/feb/26/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-guesthouses-sri-lanka">Continue reading...</a>Sri Lanka holidaysBeach holidaysHotelsBed and breakfastsAsiaTravelBudget travelWinter sunWed, 26 Feb 2014 09:45:00 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/feb/26/top-10-budget-beach-hotels-guesthouses-sri-lankaNell McShane Wulfhart2014-02-26T09:45:00ZAlt city guide to Birminghamhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/22/alt-city-guide-birmingham-uk-art-music-food-drink
<p>With independent art and street food scenes, and clubs and soundsystems bursting with bass, the second city has first-rate cultural credentials – if, like our writer, you know where to look</p><p>Creatively, Birmingham is elusive. Unlike many cities, it does not have an identifiable cultural DNA. It has never asserted itself as a centre of radical art or music. Local creatives offer various reasons why. Some take a quiet pride in that anonymity: “We didn’t shout as loud as people from Manchester, but that’s the nature of the city”, the techno producer Karl O’Connor, aka Regis, <a href="http://thequietus.com/articles/13898-regis-downwards-karl-o-connor-interview">once told the Quietus</a>. Over the years that modesty may have become a self-fulfilling prophecy, but, even geographically, Birmingham is not built for self-promotion.</p><p>This “city of a thousand trades” has always been sprawling and granular. It is highly diverse socially and culturally, a city where the best restaurants (<a href="http://www.jyotis.co.uk/">Jyoti’s</a>) or music venues (<a href="http://hareandhoundskingsheath.co.uk/">Hare &amp; Hounds</a>), are often found in the suburbs – if you are willing to travel. Which not everyone is. For instance, attracting people from the city centre into the rave dens of neighbouring, post-industrial Digbeth can be difficult. Consequently, Birmingham club crowds tend to be dedicated and discerning, though, overall, the scene is relatively small. As Alex Wynne Hughes, co-promoter of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/shadowcitybirmingham/?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE&amp;fref=nf">Shadow City</a> parties, puts it: “A lot of people would say we’ve got our own thing going on.”</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/22/alt-city-guide-birmingham-uk-art-music-food-drink">Continue reading...</a>Birmingham holidaysCity breaksShort breaksWeekend breaksFood and drinkBars and clubsCultural tripsEngland holidaysUnited Kingdom holidaysEurope holidaysTravelTue, 22 Nov 2016 06:30:28 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/22/alt-city-guide-birmingham-uk-art-music-food-drinkPhotograph: Alamy/Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy/Alamy Stock PhotoTony Naylor2016-11-22T06:30:28ZMexico City: what to see plus the best bars, restaurants and hotelshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/11/mexico-city-travel-guide-sights-hotels-bars-restaurants
<p>The colourful barrios of this teeming, oft-maligned capital are now thriving – with culture, creativity and an exciting, modern food scene</p><p>Until half a century ago, Mexico City was known as the Paris of the New World. Ample boulevards were lined with palm trees and French-style mansions. Crisp blue skies provided spectacular views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. The arts flourished. Then the urban decay that would plague many cities around the globe began to take its toll. The second half of the 20th century saw a huge increase in population and the metropolis struggled to cope. In 1985, a devastating earthquake took an enormous toll.</p><p>But the tide has turned. A progressive municipal government has made great advances in cleaning up the city. Swaths of the historic centre, once considered unsafe, have been repaved and pedestrianised, and shoppers and evening revellers now abound in the revitalised area.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/11/mexico-city-travel-guide-sights-hotels-bars-restaurants">Continue reading...</a>Mexico City holidaysMexico holidaysNorth and Central America holidaysFood and drinkHotelsRestaurantsBars and clubsTravelFood & drinkFri, 11 Nov 2016 06:30:12 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/11/mexico-city-travel-guide-sights-hotels-bars-restaurantsPhotograph: Linka A Odom/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Linka A Odom/Getty ImagesNicholas Gilman2016-11-11T06:30:12ZHow to safari in South Africa on a budgethttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/05/how-to-safari-south-africa-on-a-budget-holiday-guide
<p>A South African safari needn’t cost a packet. Our money-saving tips include going out of season, looking for online deals and doing what the locals do </p><p>The words “budget” and “safari” are not often found in the same sentence. Safaris are a notoriously expensive holiday choice. But there are ways to enjoy a bush experience for under (sometimes well under) £150 per person per night, if you do as the locals do. Despite the fall in sterling’s value, the rand/pound exchange rate means that South African safaris, paid for in the local currency, continue to offer the continent’s best value. While many African lodges in Botswana, Kenya and Tanzania, for example, quote only in US dollars, many excellent options in South Africa do not. <br><em>All prices correct at time of writing but approximate because of fluctuations in currency exchange rates</em></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/05/how-to-safari-south-africa-on-a-budget-holiday-guide">Continue reading...</a>South Africa holidaysSafarisAfrica holidaysNational parksTravelWildlife holidaysSat, 05 Nov 2016 07:00:40 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/05/how-to-safari-south-africa-on-a-budget-holiday-guidePhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoVanessa Raphaely2016-11-05T07:00:40Z48 hours in the Grampians, Victoria: mountain hikes, fine food and live musichttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/03/48-hours-in-the-grampians-victoria-mountain-hikes-fine-food-and-live-music
<p>A mere three hours’ drive from Melbourne and you’re enveloped in pristine bush overlooked by mountains offering stirring views – not to mention wineries, cafes and unexpectedly luxurious accommodation </p><p>There is much natural beauty to be found within an hour’s drive of Melbourne: Mount Macedon, Ferntree Gully, Yarra valley and the Mornington peninsula to name a few.</p><p>With so many choices, attractions that may be too far for a day trip but perfect for a weekend away often get overlooked. The Grampians (Gariwerd), a national park about three hours’ drive from Melbourne, combines almost everything those destinations closer to the city have to offer. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/03/48-hours-in-the-grampians-victoria-mountain-hikes-fine-food-and-live-music">Continue reading...</a>Australia holidaysVictoria holidaysTravelVictoria (news)Australia newsIndigenous AustraliansFood and drinkWalking holidaysFood & drinkThu, 03 Nov 2016 23:00:01 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/03/48-hours-in-the-grampians-victoria-mountain-hikes-fine-food-and-live-musicPhotograph: Robert Blackburn/Robert Blackburn/Grampians TourismPhotograph: Robert Blackburn/Robert Blackburn/Grampians TourismMelissa Davey2016-11-03T23:00:01ZIran holiday guide: from Tehran to Isfahan and beyondhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/29/iran-holiday-guide-tehran-isfahan-persepolis-yazd
<p>With staggering architecture, exotic landscapes and rich culture, Iran offers endless adventure. Resident Haleh Anvari is our guide around Persepolis, Yazd, Kashan and more</p><ul><li><strong><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/29/iran-food-tour-yasmin-khan-stews-kebabs-desserts">Explore more of Iran on a food tour</a></strong></li></ul><p>My beloved British friends! It has been 25 years since I threw that goodbye party in Brixton, complete with saffron-laden rice dishes, to bid you farewell before I returned to Iran. You were the cast of my life from the day I arrived as a homesick 12-year-old. From schoolgirl, to undergraduate, to Londoner, you were at my side.</p><p>Yet, in a quarter-century, none of you has accepted my offer of coming to visit me here. The image of Iran is so calcified by its politics that not even one of your own could persuade you to come and explore for yourself. This is my last-ditch invitation: maybe you’ll get over that psychological hurdle and catch the six-hour flight to Tehran.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/29/iran-holiday-guide-tehran-isfahan-persepolis-yazd">Continue reading...</a>Iran holidaysAdventure travelCultural tripsHeritageMiddle East holidaysTravelSat, 29 Oct 2016 06:00:12 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/29/iran-holiday-guide-tehran-isfahan-persepolis-yazdPhotograph: sergeyonas/Getty Images/iStockphotoPhotograph: sergeyonas/Getty Images/iStockphotoHaleh Anvari2016-10-29T06:00:12ZCork city guide: what to see, plus the best bars, hotels and restaurantshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/22/cork-holiday-guide-food-beer-bars-hotels-pubs-festivals
<p>Ireland’s ‘rebel city’ is often just a starting point for exploring the rugged west, but with 24 annual festivals, a cracking food scene and great pubs, there are plenty of reasons to linger </p><p>“It’s always Cork first and Ireland second,” said Roy Keane in a 1997 RTE documentary, Have Boots Will Travel. Keane, now the national football team’s assistant manager, was describing how he replies when people ask where he’s from. However, the reality is this self-proclaimed “rebel city” often plays second fiddle to Dublin in terms of attention, influence and media hubbub – and that even extends to it as a short-break destination. But missing out on Cork is a mistake. This is a city with a little bit of everything, and a touch of magic.</p><p>Blessed by a location in southern Ireland that means fresh seafood plus lush countryside for dairy produce and livestock, Cork’s food scene is flourishing under the watchful eye of chefs such as Kate Lawlor and Denis Cotter, and at restaurants including Electric, Farmgate Cafe, Fenn’s Quay and Market Lane. Beer thoughts may start with Beamish and Murphy’s but craft breweries, such as award-winner Rising Sons, as well as Elbow Lane, the Franciscan Well, and the Cotton Ball Brewing Co, provide character in a pub scene that is alive, well and adhering to cliches – in the best possible sense.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/22/cork-holiday-guide-food-beer-bars-hotels-pubs-festivals">Continue reading...</a>Cork holidaysCity breaksWeekend breaksShort breaksBars and clubsFood and drinkHotelsRestaurantsIreland holidaysEurope holidaysTravelSat, 22 Oct 2016 06:00:09 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/22/cork-holiday-guide-food-beer-bars-hotels-pubs-festivalsPhotograph: George Munday / Design Pics/Getty Images/PerspectivesPhotograph: George Munday / Design Pics/Getty Images/PerspectivesRobert Hull2016-10-22T06:00:09ZFriuli, Italy, guide: what to see plus the best bars, hotels and restaurantshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/01/friuli-italy-holiday-guide-wine-food-hotels
<p>This border region of north-east Italy has stayed out of the limelight but offers dramatic Alpine scenery, gorgeous Adriatic lagoons, and a wealth of local wine, fine cuisine and history</p><p>Driving east from Venice along the autostrada, it only takes half an hour to leave the tourists behind and cross into the very different world of Friuli. This autonomous and proudly independent region is officially known as Friuli-Venezia Giulia, a wild and still little-known corner of Italy that has its own language, a distinctive local cuisine, and a host of world-famous wines grown on rolling hillside vineyards. Strategically located at the crossroads of central Europe, Friuli stretches over Italy’s north-eastern border, from the lagoons and sandy beaches of the Adriatic coast to the grand maritime port of Trieste, along the frontier with Slovenia, then up into wild Alpine scenery and the border with Austria. The first visit here can come as a surprise, compared with Tuscany or Umbria. But it is so easy to fall under the charm of the unspoilt landscape and the warm welcome that many travellers find themselves returning.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/01/friuli-italy-holiday-guide-wine-food-hotels">Continue reading...</a>Italy holidaysFood and drinkBars and clubsRestaurantsHotelsCultural tripsBed and breakfastsTravelEurope holidaysCity breaksShort breaksSat, 01 Oct 2016 06:00:11 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/01/friuli-italy-holiday-guide-wine-food-hotelsPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoJohn Brunton2016-10-01T06:00:11ZPalermo holiday guide: what to see plus the best bars, hotels and restaurantshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/aug/27/palermo-sicily-holiday-guide-food-drink-stay
<p>The capital of Sicily is a crumbling film set of a city with unmissable architecture, vivid street life, and a great choice of alfresco restaurants and bars</p><p>Less than 200km from Tunis, Palermo is like nowhere else in Europe. Defying the mafia in a maze of crumbling grandeur, it is at the crossroads of the Mediterranean. Every neighbouring power has occupied <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/sicily">Sicily</a> at some time, which has created a sizzling mix of Arabic food, Spanish streets, Norman towers and Italian neglect.</p><p>The old town is full of baroque palaces, their facades rich with statues, above alleys strewn with litter. Families live on their doorsteps like a scene from a 1950s film. Some streets are still being rebuilt after being bombed by the allies in the second world war. This is Italy in the raw.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/aug/27/palermo-sicily-holiday-guide-food-drink-stay">Continue reading...</a>Sicily holidaysEurope holidaysItaly holidaysTravelBeach holidaysBars and clubsFood and drinkSat, 27 Aug 2016 06:00:00 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/aug/27/palermo-sicily-holiday-guide-food-drink-stayPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoJonathan Lorie2016-08-27T06:00:00ZFun and Games – the inside track on Rio de Janeirohttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/jul/30/rio-de-janeiro-olympic-games-holiday-guide
<p>Five insiders reveal how to run with the locals in the Olympics host city – a spectacular tropical metropolis with great beaches, music, views and food<br>• <strong><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/jul/30/gilles-peterson-rio-de-janeiro-playlist"> DJ Gilles Peterson’s Rio playlist</a></strong><br>• <strong><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/feb/10/best-bars-rio-de-janeiro">Top 10 classic bars in Rio</a></strong></p><p>If the Olympic movement is having a hard time of it, consider the year the host city is having. In the build-up to the 2016 Games, Brazil is sinking under a tickertape parade of bad news. Given stories of polluted water, gang and police violence, an economy in free fall, the Zika virus, fear of terror attacks and a president impeached, worries over unfinished infrastructure for the Games almost pale into insignificance. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/jul/30/rio-de-janeiro-olympic-games-holiday-guide">Continue reading...</a>Rio de Janeiro holidaysRio 2016City breaksFood and drinkBeach holidaysBrazil holidaysOlympic GamesTravelSouth America holidaysSat, 30 Jul 2016 06:00:26 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/jul/30/rio-de-janeiro-olympic-games-holiday-guidePhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoClaire Rigby2016-07-30T06:00:26ZA break with tradition: the end of the Thomson holiday brochurehttps://www.theguardian.com/business/gallery/2016/jul/12/tui-travel-thomson-skytours-holiday-brochures-phased-out
<p>As Tui Travel, owner of Thomson and First Choice, says glossy guides will be gone by 2020, we look back at how they evolved</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/gallery/2016/jul/12/tui-travel-thomson-skytours-holiday-brochures-phased-out">Continue reading...</a>Travel & leisureTui TravelTravelBusinessTue, 12 Jul 2016 13:09:57 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/business/gallery/2016/jul/12/tui-travel-thomson-skytours-holiday-brochures-phased-outPhotograph: Thomson/TuiPhotograph: Thomson/TuiGuardian Staff2016-07-12T13:09:57ZIn Seine: stand-up paddlerboarders race through Parishttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/picture/2016/dec/09/stand-up-paddleboarding-paris-river-seine-in-pictures
<p>Stand-up paddleboarding is the fastest growing sport in the world, so perhaps it’s no surprise more than 600 people braved the cold to race along the Siene last weekend</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/picture/2016/dec/09/stand-up-paddleboarding-paris-river-seine-in-pictures">Continue reading...</a>France holidaysTravel photographyTravelEurope holidaysFri, 09 Dec 2016 13:55:06 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/picture/2016/dec/09/stand-up-paddleboarding-paris-river-seine-in-picturesPhotograph: Lionel Bonaventure/AFP/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Lionel Bonaventure/AFP/Getty ImagesThe Guardian2016-12-09T13:55:06ZInstagram snapshots: Annapurna Mellor in Egypthttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/dec/07/cairo-luxor-egypt-annapurna-mellor-instagram-snapshots
<p>Photographer Annapurna Mellor found Cairo and Luxor ‘devoid of tourists’ on a recent visit. ‘I urge people to go to Egypt. Locals have a deep love for their country and a desire to share its beauty with the world’</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/dec/07/cairo-luxor-egypt-annapurna-mellor-instagram-snapshots">Continue reading...</a>Egypt holidaysCairo holidaysTravel photographyAfrica holidaysTravelPhotographyWed, 07 Dec 2016 12:18:56 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/dec/07/cairo-luxor-egypt-annapurna-mellor-instagram-snapshotsPhotograph: Annapurna MellorPhotograph: Annapurna MellorAnnapurna Mellor2016-12-07T12:18:56ZThe world's first permanent ice hotel – in pictureshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/dec/01/the-worlds-first-permanent-ice-hotel-in-pictures
<p>At Icehotel 365, which opens this week in Swedish Lapland, guests are surrounded by frozen art, can climb an ice staircase to a ‘floating’ bed and sleep at a cool -5C year round</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/dec/01/the-worlds-first-permanent-ice-hotel-in-pictures">Continue reading...</a>Lapland holidaysTravel photographySweden holidaysHotelsTravelEurope holidaysPhotographyArt and designThu, 01 Dec 2016 15:11:21 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/dec/01/the-worlds-first-permanent-ice-hotel-in-picturesPhotograph: Asaf Kliger ICEHOTEL/Luc Voisin & Mathieu Brison, www.icehotel.com, Photo by - Asaf KligerPhotograph: Asaf Kliger ICEHOTEL/Luc Voisin & Mathieu Brison, www.icehotel.com, Photo by - Asaf KligerThe Guardian2016-12-01T15:11:21ZReaders' travel photography competition: November – the winnershttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/dec/01/readers-travel-photography-competition-november-in-pictures
<p>Stillness and solitude dominate this month’s selection of images. Scroll down to see the winning shot, judged by Mick Ryan of <a href="http://www.fotovue.com/">fotovue.com</a>. Monthly winners will be displayed at the year-end exhibition at the Guardian’s London office; the overall winner gets a fantastic <a href="https://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/destinations/iceland-holidays/secret-fjords">Secret Fjords’ self-drive holiday to Iceland for two people with Discover the World</a><br></p><ul><li><strong><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/30/readers-travel-photography-competition-december-send-pictures">Enter the December competition</a></strong></li></ul> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/dec/01/readers-travel-photography-competition-november-in-pictures">Continue reading...</a>Travel photographyTravelThu, 01 Dec 2016 06:30:39 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/dec/01/readers-travel-photography-competition-november-in-picturesPhotograph: franks2805Photograph: franks2805The Guardian2016-12-01T06:30:39ZInstagram snapshots: Sameer Satchu captures trains, tea and the sea in Tanzaniahttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/nov/30/photographer-sameer-satchu-explores-tanzania-instagram-snapshots
<p>From the plains of his country through a carriage window via tea farms and the shore at Zanzibar, documentary photographer Sameer Satchu, shares ‘a fraction of what Tanzania is, and what it’s like to live here’<br></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/nov/30/photographer-sameer-satchu-explores-tanzania-instagram-snapshots">Continue reading...</a>Tanzania holidaysTravel photographyAfrica holidaysTravelPhotographyWed, 30 Nov 2016 11:00:16 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/nov/30/photographer-sameer-satchu-explores-tanzania-instagram-snapshotsPhotograph: Sam VoxPhotograph: Sam VoxSameer Satchu2016-11-30T11:00:16ZThe world's most beautiful airport terminals – in pictureshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/nov/30/worlds-most-beautiful-airport-terminals-in-pictures
<p>The beauty and design ingenuity of airport terminals – where travellers spend so much of their time – are celebrated in a new photography book, <a href="https://www.quartoknows.com/books/9780711238411/The-Art-of-the-Airport.html"><strong>The Art of the Airport</strong></a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/nov/30/worlds-most-beautiful-airport-terminals-in-pictures">Continue reading...</a>Travel photographyTravelPhotographyArt and designWed, 30 Nov 2016 06:30:10 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/nov/30/worlds-most-beautiful-airport-terminals-in-picturesPhotograph: Leonardo Finotti/PRPhotograph: Leonardo Finotti/PRThe Guardian2016-11-30T06:30:10ZInstagram snapshots: Christoffer Collin on Christmas preparations in Stockholmhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/nov/24/christmas-preparations-stockholm-instagram-snapshots-christoffer-collin
<p>The Swedish Instagrammer travels the world to take photographs but this month he’s been getting into the festive spirit on his home turf</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/nov/24/christmas-preparations-stockholm-instagram-snapshots-christoffer-collin">Continue reading...</a>Stockholm holidaysSweden holidaysTravel photographyEurope holidaysChristmas and New Year holidaysTravelThu, 24 Nov 2016 10:31:45 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/nov/24/christmas-preparations-stockholm-instagram-snapshots-christoffer-collinPhotograph: Christoffer CollinPhotograph: Christoffer CollinChristoffer Collin2016-11-24T10:31:45ZWorld view: close to nirvana in north-east Thailandhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/picture/2016/nov/18/wat-pa-phu-kon-north-east-thailand-in-pictures
<p>A Buddha reclines … in Wat Pa Phu Kon, an enormous recently built temple in Thailand’s Udon Thani province. This image is from <a href="http://www.nationalgeographic.com/">National Geographic</a>’s latest photography book</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/picture/2016/nov/18/wat-pa-phu-kon-north-east-thailand-in-pictures">Continue reading...</a>Thailand holidaysTravel photographyTravelAsiaPhotographyFri, 18 Nov 2016 09:39:22 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/picture/2016/nov/18/wat-pa-phu-kon-north-east-thailand-in-picturesPhotograph: Chairat/Getty Images/RooM RFPhotograph: Chairat/Getty Images/RooM RFThe Guardian2016-11-18T09:39:22ZInstagram snapshots: Mathew Leonardi is awed by the US south-westhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/nov/17/us-south-west-nevada-utah-arizona-road-trip-instagram-snapshots
<p>The need to ‘feel like a tiny speck in a wondrous world’ inspired Mathew Leonardi’s road trip across the stunning landscapes of Nevada, Utah, and Arizona</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/nov/17/us-south-west-nevada-utah-arizona-road-trip-instagram-snapshots">Continue reading...</a>United States holidaysNorth and Central America holidaysUtah holidaysTravelNevada holidaysTravel photographyArizona holidaysPhotographyThu, 17 Nov 2016 12:36:22 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/gallery/2016/nov/17/us-south-west-nevada-utah-arizona-road-trip-instagram-snapshotsPhotograph: Matthew LeonardiPhotograph: Matthew LeonardiMathew Leonardi2016-11-17T12:36:22ZEscape from the Blue Lagoon: Iceland, beyond Reykjavikhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/05/iceland-husafell-glacier-waterfall-hot-spring-langjokull
<p>Away from the increasingly crowded capital region, there are new ways of exploring Iceland’s untamed landscapes – and a hotel that looks like a Bond lair</p><p>Dressed in traditional Icelandic jumper and matching hat, artist/musician Páll Guðmundsson is playing a xylophone made from flat stones he’s collected from the mountains. His turf-roofed studio looks like a Hobbit home, and he shows us rock sculptures, sketches and prints made by painting on blocks of ice (there’s one of Björk, obviously).</p><p>Páll grew up here, in the tiny settlement of Húsafell, west Iceland, and was inspired as a child by the artists who came to paint each summer. The landscape they captured is enchanting: a ring of dramatic mountains and rugged lava fields, with glaciers on the horizon, today wreathed in clouds. It’s October, low season, and with few people around, the sense of untamed nature is palpable.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/05/iceland-husafell-glacier-waterfall-hot-spring-langjokull">Continue reading...</a>Iceland holidaysTravelAdventure travelHotelsMon, 05 Dec 2016 07:00:17 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/05/iceland-husafell-glacier-waterfall-hot-spring-langjokullPhotograph: Tim E White/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Tim E White/Getty ImagesJane Dunford2016-12-05T07:00:17ZThe Victoria Inn, Peckham Rye, London: hotel reviewhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/04/victoria-inn-pub-peckham-london-hotel-review
<p>Gentrified Peckham Rye now has a pub with rooms to match. And the food’s pretty high-end, too</p><p>There are spots in Peckham where you could almost believe you’re in an upmarket English town, rather than deep in south London. The Victoria is in one such spot: a handsome inn, which first opened in 1878 on a corner of Bellenden Road, a terrace shared with a cluster of indie businesses, such as trendy deli <a href="https://www.generalsto.re/">The General Store</a> and butcher <a href="http://www.flockandherd.com/">Flock &amp; Herd</a>. On Sunday mornings, when Peckham Farmers’ Market is in full swing, the illusion is complete.</p><p>It’s probably the growing number of such places – part of this corner of Peckham’s swing towards gentrification – that prompted the Victoria to go for a refurb. It reopened in October following a renovation that included its 15 guest rooms, which, I’m told, weren’t worth even thinking about before.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/04/victoria-inn-pub-peckham-london-hotel-review">Continue reading...</a>London holidaysUnited Kingdom holidaysEngland holidaysHotelsPubsBars and clubsTravelSun, 04 Dec 2016 10:00:10 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/04/victoria-inn-pub-peckham-london-hotel-reviewPhotograph: Steve Russell Studios Ltd.Photograph: Steve Russell Studios Ltd.Will Coldwell2016-12-04T10:00:10ZSavour Sri Lanka: sights, sunshine and beaches – away from the crowdshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/03/sri-lanka-tourist-development-hotels-beaches-wildlife
<p>Sri Lanka is on the brink of a tourism boom with hotel chains rushing to open luxury resorts. But venture off the beaten track a little and you will find deserted shores, natural beauty and little-visited temples</p><p>The beach at Gurupokuna on Sri Lanka’s south coast is wild and empty. Look up and down its length and you’re unlikely to see another person. The waves here are wild, too. Too wild to swim in for eight months of the year. They crash and pound so angrily that you can hear their roar at least half a mile inland. At night it felt like our hut, which was just metres from the surf, was about to be engulfed by the ocean. The fact that the original huts were swallowed by the sea in the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami gave a slight edge to our first night at <a href="http://www.mambozbeach.com/">Mamboz Beach Cabanas</a>.</p><p>But all angst evaporated with the morning sunshine. Mamboz is a very simple place: just four huts on stilts in the sand, a few hammocks strung under palm trees, and a back gate that opens directly on to that beach. Arriving with my partner and six-year-old son, I felt like we’d stumbled across an exotic little club: exclusive because of its spectacular and remote setting, but friendly and welcoming thanks to the easy charm of its owner, American Matthew Gale. Over dinner of tuna steaks and banana leaf curry, one couple told us they’d come for three days but were now into their eighth. “We can’t leave.”</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/03/sri-lanka-tourist-development-hotels-beaches-wildlife">Continue reading...</a>Sri Lanka holidaysHotelsFood and drinkTravelAsiaSat, 03 Dec 2016 07:00:15 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/03/sri-lanka-tourist-development-hotels-beaches-wildlifePhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoIsabel Choat2016-12-03T07:00:15ZRoom 212, Bristol: accommodation reviewhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/27/212-eco-house-bristol-accommodation-cottage-review
<p>A one-bedroom, eco-friendly, holiday let on trendy Gloucester Road proves cute and practical enough to ward off any charge of pretentiousness, despite its arty leanings</p><p>There cannot be a more Guardian thoroughfare in the UK than Bristol’s Gloucester Road, which winds and climbs north from the centre into Bishopston and claims to be Europe’s longest street of independent businesses. There’s a Tesco Express somewhere and a Subway, but otherwise it’s over a mile of small concerns: art galleries, jewellers, health food shops, a handmade kids’ clothing boutique, and more cafes, bars and restaurants than you could shake an organic focaccia at.</p><p>And just when I’m thinking this is one of those places where it’s easy to buy a handmade card but not a cauliflower, I spot two greengrocers, then a craft beer emporium, a fish shop (line-caught tuna, organic salmon), and a couple of bakeries and butchers (one selling fresh faggots).</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/27/212-eco-house-bristol-accommodation-cottage-review">Continue reading...</a>Bristol holidaysUnited Kingdom holidaysCity breaksWeekend breaksShort breaksGreen travelHotelsTravelEngland holidaysSun, 27 Nov 2016 11:00:00 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/27/212-eco-house-bristol-accommodation-cottage-reviewPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRLiz Boulter2016-11-27T11:00:00ZEden Project unveils plans to build on-site hotelhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/15/eden-project-unveils-plans-to-build-on-site-hotel
<p>The popular Cornwall visitor attraction plans 109-room hotel designed to blend into the landscape and make use of local materials</p><p>It’s already Cornwall’s most visited attraction – thanks to its pair of striking biomes, housing an indoor rainforest as well as 1,000 varieties of Mediterranean plant – but the Eden Project has now announced plans to add an £8.5m hotel to its site near St Austell.</p><p>The idea is for the 109-room hotel to use a two-block design in order to reduce its visible impact on the landscape, while a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability will involve the use of timber and stone from the local area. If new plans are approved, construction will start in late 2017, with an opening date in April 2018.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/15/eden-project-unveils-plans-to-build-on-site-hotel">Continue reading...</a>Cornwall holidaysEden Project holidaysHotelsEngland holidaysUnited Kingdom holidaysTravelEden ProjectUK newsTue, 15 Nov 2016 15:11:20 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/15/eden-project-unveils-plans-to-build-on-site-hotelPhotograph: John Curtis / Rex FeaturesPhotograph: John Curtis / Rex FeaturesRobert Hull2016-11-15T15:11:20ZLarkbeare Grange, south Devon: B&B reviewhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/12/larkbeare-grange-bed-and-breakfast-devon-hotel-review
<p>This elegant B&amp;B knows that the secret to success is not being slaves to hotel trends, it’s great service and attention to detail </p><p>Have we reached peak boutique? Farrow and Ball paint jobs, roll-top baths, Roberts radios, stripped floorboards, exposed brick and mismatched furniture are as common today as floral curtains and doilies were in the 1980s. It’s not that these aren’t attractive features; it’s just that there’s a certain predictability to many of today’s small hotels, pubs with rooms and B&amp;Bs.</p><p>But, as with fashion, you don’t have to slavishly follow the latest trends to look good. Larkbeare Grange is a luxury B&amp;B that manages to be both elegant and comfortable by sticking to more classic design. There are family portraits on the cream walls, carpets in the bedrooms, antique furniture and, yes, floral curtains. It’s neat and cosseting but the thing that struck me most about our spacious bedroom – one of four – was the view of fields and gentle hills from the large sash windows. The setting of Larkbeare is lovely – an avenue of cherry trees, currently being replaced with tulip trees, leads to a detached house painted the colour of clotted cream. My partner and I were greeted by owner Julia and ushered to seats overlooking a lawn strewn with croquet mallets and balls. Two minutes later Julia returned with a tray of tea and shortbread and we relaxed into a quintessentially English scene.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/12/larkbeare-grange-bed-and-breakfast-devon-hotel-review">Continue reading...</a>Devon holidaysUnited Kingdom holidaysShort breaksWeekend breaksHotelsTravelSat, 12 Nov 2016 11:00:47 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/12/larkbeare-grange-bed-and-breakfast-devon-hotel-reviewPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRIsabel Choat2016-11-12T11:00:47ZWhich one of England’s ‘oldest hotels’ is actually the oldest?https://www.theguardian.com/travel/shortcuts/2016/nov/06/royal-clarence-which-one-of-englands-oldest-hotels-is-oldest
The Royal Clarence hotel in Exeter was given the venerable title after it burned down recently – but a number of other places make the same claim. So who has bragging rights?<p>When news broke last weekend that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2016/oct/28/exeter-fire-threatens-royal-clarence-hotel" title="">the Royal Clarence hotel in Exeter was burning down</a>, it was met with an outpouring of public sympathy – and confusion. The building was repeatedly referred to as the oldest hotel in England, leading some people to wonder: “Hang on – I thought I’d stayed at the oldest hotel in England. And it wasn’t in Exeter.”</p><p>Establishments in Norwich, Derbyshire, Cambridgeshire, Gloucestershire and more all claim the title – and at least two, The Old Bell, in Wiltshire and The Olde Bell in Berkshire, even share a name. Which begs the question: just how many oldest hotels in England does England have?</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/shortcuts/2016/nov/06/royal-clarence-which-one-of-englands-oldest-hotels-is-oldest">Continue reading...</a>HotelsSun, 06 Nov 2016 15:00:19 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/shortcuts/2016/nov/06/royal-clarence-which-one-of-englands-oldest-hotels-is-oldestPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoColin Drury2016-11-06T15:00:19ZUK cabins and glampsites that are great in winterhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/26/uk-cabins-glampsites-winter-accommodation
<p>Immerse yourself in the outdoors but stay toasty warm at our pick of rustic stays inspired by accommodation in Finland, Lapland and even the Iranian highlands</p><p><strong><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/26/forest-holiday-cabin-hampshire-family-activities">• A forest cabin for all the family</a></strong></p><p>Finn Lough’s bubble domes are the closest things the UK has to igloos, but have transparent walls so guests can stargaze from bed. The two-person domes are in 50 acres of woodland, but it’s not all back to nature: the beds are modern four-posters, and there are coffee machines, posh toiletries, vintage record players and en suite bathrooms. Other accommodation includes lodges and cottages, and there are activities such as fishing, biking and kayaking. The restaurant serves warming winter dishes – perhaps venison with forest mushrooms.<br>•<em> £195 a night B&amp;B, </em><a href="http://www.finnlough.com/en/accommodation/bubblehouse"><em>finnlough.com</em></a></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/26/uk-cabins-glampsites-winter-accommodation">Continue reading...</a>Camping holidaysGlampingUnited Kingdom holidaysFamily holidaysShort breaksWeekend breaksTravelCottagesSat, 26 Nov 2016 11:00:30 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/26/uk-cabins-glampsites-winter-accommodationPhotograph: from michael@finnlough.com/No creditPhotograph: from michael@finnlough.com/No creditRachel Dixon2016-11-26T11:00:30ZDown to the woods … a family break in a forest cabinhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/26/forest-holiday-cabin-hampshire-family-activities
<p>How can Kirsty Pope persuade her mud-averse husband to go on a forest activity break in winter? By staying in a luxury Forestry Commission cabin where you can observe the nature from your sofa</p><ul><li><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/26/uk-cabins-glampsites-winter-accommodation"><strong>Ten cosy UK cabins for winter</strong></a></li></ul><p>It isn’t often you choose a holiday as a marital experiment, but our Forest Holidays weekend away in Hampshire was just that. My husband feels about any landscape more rural than a golf course the way Woody Allen feels about California: he knows it exists but wonders why you’d want to go there. I, on the other hand, adore the spirit-restoring nature of nature. So when I learned about luxury cabins on Forestry Commission land – with ranger-led activities that our son and daughter (aged seven and just two) could join in with – I felt that, on paper at least, this holiday had been created with my family in mind.</p><p>It didn’t fail to deliver. While the nature-averse or exhausted can luxuriate in the eye-pleasing cabin’s comprehensive film, TV and internet package, others get to explore the forest. My son and I spent the Saturday night on a Night Vision Walk which, at this time of year, meant trekking along gloopy forest paths, strictly without torches, accompanied by the chilling sound that the wind reserves for its meetings with armies of very tall trees. There’s a no-torch rule because the aim of the walk is to spot forest wildlife through night vision lenses, and properly discover the landscape’s nocturnal goings on. This ranger-led walk is just one of the unusual ways young and older visitors get to interact with the beautiful woodland that is the star of any Forest Holidays break.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/26/forest-holiday-cabin-hampshire-family-activities">Continue reading...</a>GlampingCamping holidaysUnited Kingdom holidaysHampshire holidaysEngland holidaysFamily holidaysTravelSat, 26 Nov 2016 11:00:30 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/26/forest-holiday-cabin-hampshire-family-activitiesPhotograph: Forest HolidaysPhotograph: Forest HolidaysKirsty Pope2016-11-26T11:00:30ZTake the kids to … Wonderlab at the Science Museum, Londonhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/15/wonderlab-science-museum-london-take-the-kids
<p>This new gallery inside the (otherwise free) museum invites children to become scientists through 50 interactive displays and regular live shows </p><p><strong>In a nutshell </strong><br>A tunnel of changing coloured lights leads to a gallery where dry ice billows, waves bounce, mist flows and materials are tested at the Chemical Bar. This new permanent feature in the popular Kensington museum has 50 interactive exhibits, with staff to explain the science and get kids involved. Regular live shows (included) demonstrate the science behind rockets, explosions and other noisy, messy phenomena.</p><p><strong>Fun fact</strong><br>The tesla coil used in the regular electricity demonstrations discharges lightning at one million volts. In comparison, the mains electricity in UK homes is 240 volts.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/15/wonderlab-science-museum-london-take-the-kids">Continue reading...</a>London holidaysFamily holidaysDay tripsMuseumsUnited Kingdom holidaysEngland holidaysTravelTue, 15 Nov 2016 13:09:11 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/15/wonderlab-science-museum-london-take-the-kidsPhotograph: Plastiques Photography LimitedPhotograph: Plastiques Photography LimitedIsabel Choat2016-11-15T13:09:11Z‘Grandfather rented the rock for £1 a year…’ Why sailor Alex Thomson loves Jerseyhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/04/yachtsman-alex-thomson-why-i-love-jersey-holiday-trips
<p>The round-the-world yachtsman’s fondest childhood memories are of holiday trips to a tiny islet off Jersey – and grabbing live lobsters with his bare hands</p><p><strong>Seven miles off Jersey is a string of tiny islands called Les Ecréhous.</strong> There had been fishermen’s huts there for centuries and in the 1950s they started to be used for holidays. In 1953, my grandfather saw one rock that didn’t have a hut. He went to the <a href="http://www.gov.je/Pages/default.aspx">States of Jersey</a> and agreed to rent this rock for a pound a year. He put a garden shed on it, expecting it to last a season, but it lasted until 2006, when there was a really big storm.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/04/yachtsman-alex-thomson-why-i-love-jersey-holiday-trips">Continue reading...</a>Channel Islands holidaysUnited Kingdom holidaysFamily holidaysBeach holidaysSailing holidaysTravelSailingFri, 04 Nov 2016 11:42:15 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/04/yachtsman-alex-thomson-why-i-love-jersey-holiday-tripsPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoInterview by Will Coldwell2016-11-04T11:42:15ZFossil fever: exploring Dorset's Jurassic Coast with Steve Etcheshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/04/fossil-hunting-jurassic-coast-steve-etches-new-museum-dorset
<p>Retired plumber Steve Etches has spent years combing the coast for ammonites and dinosaur bones. He has collected so many a £5m, world-class museum, in the village of Kimmeridge, has been built to house them all</p><p>At low tide on an autumn afternoon, the dark shale of Kimmeridge Bay in Dorset is dotted with figures. A group of student marine biologists equipped with instruments are making notes, children clutching nets are rockpooling, and day trippers are picking their way over the natural stone ledges jutting into the water.</p><p>Among them is a man who has spent a lifetime discovering and preserving the wonders and secrets of Kimmeridge. Steve Etches, a 67-year-old plumber and self-taught paleontologist, nimbly navigates the rocks like a man half his age, showing me ammonites that date back 150 million years or more. They’re not easy to spot. I follow Etches’ finger as he points at ridges and whorls in the dark rock – and when I find one myself, I feel a flash of pride.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/04/fossil-hunting-jurassic-coast-steve-etches-new-museum-dorset">Continue reading...</a>Dorset holidaysEngland holidaysUnited Kingdom holidaysDay tripsFamily holidaysHeritageBeach holidaysTravelFossilsMuseumsScienceFri, 04 Nov 2016 06:30:10 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/04/fossil-hunting-jurassic-coast-steve-etches-new-museum-dorsetPhotograph: The Etches Collection/Terry Keennan)Photograph: The Etches Collection/Terry Keennan)Harriet Sherwood2016-11-04T06:30:10ZTake the kids to … London Wetland Centre, Barneshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/22/take-the-kids-to-london-wetland-centre-barnes
<p>These wild acres are an oasis in busy south-west London – and even kids left cold by the many migrating birds will love the otters and adventure playground</p><p>A watery world of lakes, lagoons and marsh linked by flat paths, where 180 species of birds have been seen. It’s vibrant in spring and summer with chicks galore, the pond ripe for dipping and meadows bright with flowers and insects, but autumn and winter have their own appeal. Stroll around the main lake and duck into one of the six hides to admire wintering fowl in weak sunlight. It can feel like you have the place to yourself.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/22/take-the-kids-to-london-wetland-centre-barnes">Continue reading...</a>Day tripsFamily holidaysWildlife holidaysWildlifeUnited Kingdom holidaysSat, 22 Oct 2016 08:00:11 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/22/take-the-kids-to-london-wetland-centre-barnesPhotograph: Pawel Libera/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Pawel Libera/Getty ImagesIsabel Choat2016-10-22T08:00:11ZTake the kids to ... The Deep, Hullhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/11/the-deep-aquarium-hull-family-holidays-day-trips-england
<p>Fish fans will love this impressive aquarium, overlooking the city’s estuary and home to 3,500 creatures, including a little colony of cute Gentoo penguins</p><p>It calls itself “the world’s first submarium”, but that’s a made-up word. It is, in fact, a huge and very impressive charitable public aquarium, in a landmark building on the point where the Hull and Humber rivers meet. Sections such as Endless Ocean and Amazon Flooded Forest are home to 3,500 sea creatures, including seven kinds of shark. Touchpool sessions throughout the day are led by engaging keepers happy to talk about crab poo and similar savoury topics. The Lagoon of Light exhibit is closed for refurbishment until February (as part of the general sprucing up for City of Culture year) but there’s plenty more to see – with maybe less of a crowd.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/11/the-deep-aquarium-hull-family-holidays-day-trips-england">Continue reading...</a>HullUK city of cultureUnited Kingdom holidaysDay tripsFamily holidaysTue, 11 Oct 2016 10:00:44 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/11/the-deep-aquarium-hull-family-holidays-day-trips-englandPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRLiz Boulter2016-10-11T10:00:44ZSki holiday calendar: will there be snow when I go?https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/08/15-best-ski-resorts-europe-for-snow
<p>When splashing out on a ski trip, you need to know there’ll be plenty of white stuff. We recommend the best resorts at Christmas, half-term, Easter and more </p><p>In these troubled climatic times, skiers and snowboarders can no longer rely on adequate snow cover throughout the season. So planning is vital. In particular, anyone arranging an early or late holiday should choose somewhere at high altitude, then even if there’s insufficient natural stuff, the sub-zero temperatures – at least at night – should ensure that artificial snowmaking can take place. <br>• <em>Prices below are per person for one week, including half-board, flights and transfers, unless stated otherwise</em></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/08/15-best-ski-resorts-europe-for-snow">Continue reading...</a>Skiing holidaysFrance holidaysItaly holidaysAustria holidaysFamily holidaysTravelSat, 08 Oct 2016 06:00:35 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/08/15-best-ski-resorts-europe-for-snowPhotograph: Eisend StefanPhotograph: Eisend StefanFelice Hardy2016-10-08T06:00:35ZTake the kids to … The Tank Museum, Bovington, Dorsethttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/04/bovington-tank-museum-dorset-take-the-kids-to
<p>This rather sceptical mum was surprised by just how much fun – and how absorbing – this collection of armoured vehicles was</p><p>Even if militaria doesn’t get your engine revving, this attraction is well worth a visit, with its vast collection of vehicles in six well-organised halls. They tell the story of armoured warfare from the first world war and the first tank, Little Willie, to the present day, broken up by a number of tank-related activities to ease exhibit fatigue.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/04/bovington-tank-museum-dorset-take-the-kids-to">Continue reading...</a>Dorset holidaysDay tripsUnited Kingdom holidaysEngland holidaysMuseumsFamily holidaysTravelTue, 04 Oct 2016 09:43:16 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/oct/04/bovington-tank-museum-dorset-take-the-kids-toPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoHelen Gooding2016-10-04T09:43:16ZTake the kids to … Wookey Hole Caves, Somersethttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/sep/27/wookey-hole-caves-somerset-family-children-dy-out
<p>If stalactites and stalagmites aren’t enough to excite the children, there’s a witch at this attraction. But it’s not all darkness, there are clowns too. And cheese …</p><p>A network of limestone caves in Somerset, thick with stalactites and stalagmites and rich in stories of yore, most famously of a witch who was turned to stone.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/sep/27/wookey-hole-caves-somerset-family-children-dy-out">Continue reading...</a>Somerset holidaysFamily holidaysDay tripsEngland holidaysTravelUnited Kingdom holidaysTue, 27 Sep 2016 09:22:46 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/sep/27/wookey-hole-caves-somerset-family-children-dy-outPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoIsabel Choat2016-09-27T09:22:46ZSend us a tip about off-the-beaten track India and win a £200 hotel voucherhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/07/send-us-a-tip-about-off-the-beaten-track-india-and-win-a-200-hotel-voucher
<p>If you’ve travelled to parts of India few westerners see, you could win a £200 voucher from <a href="http://www.uk.hotels.com/">uk.hotels.com</a> by sharing your tip on the untrodden subcontinent</p><p>Beyond Agra and Jaipur, away from the beaches of Goa and Kerala, India’s hills, coast and cities – not to mention food, temples and living traditions – are ripe for discovery by westerners. If you’re already familiar with untrodden India, we’d like to hear all about it. <strong>We’re looking for tips on specific places, hotels, restaurants and activities</strong>.</p><p>Send us your tips via <strong>GuardianWitness</strong>, with as much detail as you can (including website and prices etc, if possible) in <strong>around</strong> <strong>100 words</strong>.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/07/send-us-a-tip-about-off-the-beaten-track-india-and-win-a-200-hotel-voucher">Continue reading...</a>TravelWed, 07 Dec 2016 14:36:33 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/07/send-us-a-tip-about-off-the-beaten-track-india-and-win-a-200-hotel-voucherPhotograph: Saurabh Das/APPhotograph: Saurabh Das/APGuardian Staff2016-12-07T14:36:33ZTell us about your favourite discovery of 2016 and win £200 hotel voucherhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/tell-us-about-your-favourite-discovery-of-2016-and-win-200-hotel-voucher
<p>Have you found somewhere really fabulous on your travels in 2016? Whatever and wherever it is, we want to hear about it for our end-of-year round up – and you and you could win a £200 voucher from <a href="http://www.uk.hotels.com/">uk.hotels.com</a></p><p>It could be great little place to stay, a museum that blew you away or a raucous locals’ bar where you had the best night of your life. It might be a beautiful walk you discovered on a short UK break or an amazing beach or exotic jungle retreat on the other side of the world.</p><p>Send us your <strong>favourite travel discovery of 2016</strong> via <strong>GuardianWitness</strong>, with as much detail as you can (including website and prices etc, if possible) in <strong>around</strong> <strong>100 words</strong>.<br></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/tell-us-about-your-favourite-discovery-of-2016-and-win-200-hotel-voucher">Continue reading...</a>TravelTue, 06 Dec 2016 15:45:04 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/tell-us-about-your-favourite-discovery-of-2016-and-win-200-hotel-voucherPhotograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyGuardian Staff2016-12-06T15:45:04ZPlaces to go in Sri Lanka: readers’ travel tipshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/01/sri-lanka-readers-travel-tips-colombo-jaffna-galle-tea
<p>Colombo, Jaffna and Galle captivate readers, as do Sri Lanka’s national parks (with leopards), beautiful B&amp;Bs, street food (with a real kick) and tea. Lots of tea</p><p>Have tea, dinner or cocktails in <strong>Helga’s Folly</strong>, a fabulously spooky gothic mansion in the midst of jungle flora with to-die-for views of the historic city of Kandy. Every inch is covered in paintings, photographs, mirrors and dripping candles. This is where Vivien Leigh, Laurence Olivier and Zandra Rhodes stayed and where the Stereophonics wrote an ode to its owner, Madame Helga. The eccentric proprietor, former model Helga de Silva Blow Perera, moves in circles of artists, politicians and intrigue, lives in the Folly and introduces herself personally to guests. Rooms may be a bit run-down and pricey, but the Alice-in-Wonderland-kitsch-meets-avant-garde <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/music/musicblog/2013/apr/18/a-z-wagner-gesamtkunstwerk"><em>gesamtkunstwerk</em></a> style is not to be missed.<br><strong>• </strong><em>Doubles from $120 B&amp;B, special rates for writers and artists</em><strong>, </strong><a href="http://www.helgasfolly.com/"><em>helgasfolly.com</em></a><br><strong>Elfmeterkina </strong></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/01/sri-lanka-readers-travel-tips-colombo-jaffna-galle-tea">Continue reading...</a>Sri Lanka holidaysAsiaTravelThu, 01 Dec 2016 11:30:45 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/01/sri-lanka-readers-travel-tips-colombo-jaffna-galle-teaPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoGuardian readers2016-12-01T11:30:45ZSend us a tip on a European winter city break and win a £200 hotel voucherhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/30/send-us-a-tip-on-a-european-winter-city-break-and-win-a-200-hotel-voucher
<p>Whether you’ve spent a weekend trying out ice rinks and glühwein in Berlin or visiting nativity scenes in Naples, you could win a £200 voucher from <a href="http://www.uk.hotels.com/">uk.hotels.com</a> if you contribute your tip on winter city breaks in Europe</p><p>Darkness and snow create a special magic that northern European cities revel in with markets, skating and wonderful lighting, while in southern Europe the traditional and religious flavours of the season are often to the fore. <strong>Remember we’re looking for tips on specific places, hotels, restaurants and activities</strong>, so tell us about the great places you’ve stayed at and visited.</p><p>Send us your tips via <strong>GuardianWitness</strong>, with as much detail as you can (including website and prices etc, if possible) in <strong>around</strong> <strong>100 words</strong>.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/30/send-us-a-tip-on-a-european-winter-city-break-and-win-a-200-hotel-voucher">Continue reading...</a>Wed, 30 Nov 2016 17:51:52 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/30/send-us-a-tip-on-a-european-winter-city-break-and-win-a-200-hotel-voucherPhotograph: Markus Schreiber/APPhotograph: Markus Schreiber/APGuardian Staff2016-11-30T17:51:52ZHighlights of Jordan: readers’ travel tipshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/24/highlights-jordan-petra-wadi-rum-dead-sea-amman
<p>World heritage sites Petra and Wadi Rum are obviously on the list, but our readers have also enjoyed the cafes of Amman, dramatic nature reserves and hiking to waterfalls – along with lashings of hummus</p><p>Book a night in one of the beautifully renovated rooms at Dana Hotel, with their whitewashed walls, modern bathrooms, comfy beds and amazing views. For dinner, ask the owner of the only restaurant in Dana village to whip you up a feast. There’s no menu: just trust him – he knows what he’s doing. Breakfast is on the hotel’s rooftop overlooking Dana valley. Once you’re done, walk through the tiny village and into the valley itself, in Jordan’s largest nature reserve: it’s a breathtaking landscape perfect for hardened hikers and relaxed ramblers alike. Heaven, and far from the tourist-bus trail.<br>• <em>Doubles from £17 B&amp;B (</em><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Dana.Hotel.Jordan/"><em>on Facebook</em></a><em>)<br></em><strong>Venetia Rainey</strong></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/24/highlights-jordan-petra-wadi-rum-dead-sea-amman">Continue reading...</a>Jordan holidaysMiddle East holidaysTravelThu, 24 Nov 2016 06:30:26 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/24/highlights-jordan-petra-wadi-rum-dead-sea-ammanPhotograph: UN Women/Christopher HerwigPhotograph: UN Women/Christopher HerwigGuardian readers2016-11-24T06:30:26ZSend us a tip on Sri Lanka and win a £200 hotel voucherhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/23/send-us-a-tip-on-sri-lanka-and-win-a-200-hotel-voucher
<p>Whether you just crashed on the beach, or followed an itinerary crammed full of temples, markets, cities and sights, you could win a £200 voucher from <a href="http://www.uk.hotels.com/">uk.hotels.com</a> if you contribute your tip on Sri Lanka</p><p>Whether your trip centred on a national park, wildlife experience, historic town, a verdant yoga retreat or an endless beach, we want to hear about your experiences. <strong>Remember we’re looking for tips on specific places (hotels, restaurants, walks, beaches and so on) rather than whole regions or cities</strong>, so tell us about the great places you’ve stayed at and visited.</p><p>Send us your tips via <strong><a href="https://witness.theguardian.com/assignment/5835aac0e4b0da4920d6b4dc">GuardianWitness</a></strong>, with as much detail as you can (including website and prices etc, if possible) in <strong>around</strong> <strong>100 words</strong>.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/23/send-us-a-tip-on-sri-lanka-and-win-a-200-hotel-voucher">Continue reading...</a>Sri Lanka holidaysTravelWed, 23 Nov 2016 15:45:38 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/23/send-us-a-tip-on-sri-lanka-and-win-a-200-hotel-voucherPhotograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyGuardian Staff2016-11-23T15:45:38ZThings to do in Vietnam: readers’ travel tipshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/17/things-to-do-in-vietnam-beaches-food-hanoi-ho-chi-minh-city
<p>Beautiful countryside, delicious food and fascinating culture ... readers share the most memorable places and experiences from their travels, often discovered in the company of knowledgeable locals</p><p>OK, so the town of Ninh Binh (two hours’ drive south of Hanoi) is no looker, but the surrounding countryside will seduce you. Once there I hired a bicycle and set out early morning to explore the karst limestone scenery (think Halong bay with rice paddies replacing the sea). It was a wonderfully peaceful day of exploring villages, and having a picnic by the side of rice fields while watching the locals work. After two weeks in Vietnam, it was the first time I could really listen to the birds and feel at peace. It can be hard to escape the mopeds, but I had found the Vietnam I had hoped for.<br><strong>Noodlequeen</strong></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/17/things-to-do-in-vietnam-beaches-food-hanoi-ho-chi-minh-city">Continue reading...</a>Vietnam holidaysAsiaTop 10sTravelThu, 17 Nov 2016 06:30:40 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/17/things-to-do-in-vietnam-beaches-food-hanoi-ho-chi-minh-cityPhotograph: Marco Bottigelli/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Marco Bottigelli/Getty ImagesGuardian readers2016-11-17T06:30:40ZGreat rail journeys of the world: readers’ tipshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/10/great-rail-train-journeys-of-the-world-readers-travel-trips
<p>Whether it’s the coast of Cornwall, Siberia or the savannah of east Africa, our readers have picked train trips memorable for landscapes, food and fellow travellers</p><p>On my first ever visit to India I embarked on a 40-hour journey from Mumbai to Trivandrum. The sheer amount of time to be on a train was daunting, but it was the highlight of my trip. There may be journeys with more epic scenery, longer tunnels and higher bridges, but it’s the experiences inside the train that shine more than the sights outside. I shared the carriage with groups of singing/dancing schoolchildren, chatted to teachers, salesmen and chanting monks. The snacks offered change as you head south, along with the language and people. I only wish I’d chosen a longer journey.<br>•<em> </em><a href="http://www.trainman.in/trains/Mumbai-BSR/Thiruvananthapuram"><em>trainman.in</em></a><em>, sleeper tickets from about £7</em><br><strong>eatthebeat123</strong></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/10/great-rail-train-journeys-of-the-world-readers-travel-trips">Continue reading...</a>Rail travelAdventure travelTravelThu, 10 Nov 2016 06:30:25 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/10/great-rail-train-journeys-of-the-world-readers-travel-tripsPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoGuardian readers2016-11-10T06:30:25Z10 of the best small towns in the US: readers’ travel tipshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/03/10-best-us-small-towns-readers-travel-tips-united-states-america
<p>To get a real feel for the diversity and quirkiness of America, visit its small towns – where fascinating history, regional cuisine and great scenery are just some of the attractions</p><p>Helper is an old mining town 100 miles or so from Salt Lake City. It had been in decline for years but a steady flow of artists who can’t afford SLC prices are moving in. The old, run-down cinema still displays a poster of the last film shown in the 1960s. Its rich history of immigration and mining, plus its Butch Cassidy links, is reflected in the fascinating contents of its antique shops. The residents were pleased and perplexed to have an English couple turn up in town. We heard stories of the town’s past from a retired actor carrying his three white poodles who had moved in a decade ago from LA. He told of the huge increase in the town’s population when miners came down from the mountains at the weekends, the bars and bordellos doing great business. The town is a sort of living museum and anyone interested in American culture would delight in spending time here, chatting with real characters full of stories and legends. Go before this place disappears. It’s authentic and unforgettable.<br><strong>Pappi</strong></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/03/10-best-us-small-towns-readers-travel-tips-united-states-america">Continue reading...</a>United States holidaysNorth and Central America holidaysCultural tripsTop 10sTravelThu, 03 Nov 2016 06:30:41 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/03/10-best-us-small-towns-readers-travel-tips-united-states-americaPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoGuardian readers2016-11-03T06:30:41ZTop 10 travel books for Christmashttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/07/top-10-travel-books-for-christmas-gifts
<p>Travel books broaden the mind and provide inspiration for your own dream trip. From beautiful photography books to daring and sometimes madcap adventures all these make perfect presents </p><p>We all like to imagine our travels have greater meaning, but travel writers are fixated on the idea. This anthology compiles pieces by writers in search of something, from artistic inspiration to spiritual enlightenment, taking them to Dracula’s castle, Mayan temples, Antarctica and the sacred Indian city of Varanasi. These are essays to inspire readers to embark on a pilgrimage of their own.<br>•<em> £15.23, published by </em><em><a href="https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/5533.htm">University of Wisconsin Press</a></em></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/07/top-10-travel-books-for-christmas-gifts">Continue reading...</a>Adventure travelLiterary tripsTop 10sChristmasTravelTravel writingBooksCultureWed, 07 Dec 2016 06:30:23 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/07/top-10-travel-books-for-christmas-giftsPhotograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyWill Coldwell2016-12-07T06:30:23ZHydra: a pilgrimage to Leonard Cohen’s Greek island retreathttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/04/hydra-greece-leonard-cohen
<p>The tiny Greek island that so enchanted Leonard Cohen in the 1960s still captivates today. Yiannis Baboulias tours some of the haunts that inspired the great musician</p><p>Come December, well after the end of the tourist season for the Greek islands, the atmosphere in <a href="http://www.hydraislandgreece.com/">Hydra</a> changes. From cosmopolitan and festive during the summer, the mood turns contemplative as winter arrives and the blue skies become a rare occurrence. Last month, another event marked the turning of the season: <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/music/2016/nov/11/leonard-cohen-obituary">Leonard Cohen’s death</a>.<br></p><p>A young couple, who have come to pay their respects, sit next to Cohen’s house and read his poetry aloud</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/04/hydra-greece-leonard-cohen">Continue reading...</a>TravelGreece holidaysEurope holidaysLeonard CohenMusicSun, 04 Dec 2016 07:00:07 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/04/hydra-greece-leonard-cohenPhotograph: James Burke/The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty ImagesPhotograph: James Burke/The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty ImagesYiannis Baboulias2016-12-04T07:00:07ZPutting Airbnb’s new hosted ‘experience’ to the testhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/04/airbnb-new-experiences-events
<p>The global rental giant is rolling out tours and learning experiences run by ‘micro entrepreneurs’ in 12 cities worldwide. How will our writer fare on a hippy pottery course in Los Angeles?</p><p>I’d thought my “experience” was going to be about making pottery, but it turns out that it also involves sitting in a circle feeling crystals and drinking mezcal. I’m testing out the two-day, £221 <a href="https://www.airbnb.co.uk/experiences/310">Crafting Magic</a> Airbnb Experiences package in Los Angeles, but wondering when we’ll get to the clay.</p><p>Day one and Andrea Osojnik, our black-clad twentysomething host here in LA’s Echo Park neighbourhood, tells us we need to be in the right frame of mind to make a pot well (hence the crystal meditation) but the booze element (a clay pot makes mezcal taste more smoky, she says) perhaps makes this less likely.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/04/airbnb-new-experiences-events">Continue reading...</a>Learning holidaysLos Angeles holidaysShort breaksAirbnbDay tripsTravel & leisureTravelSun, 04 Dec 2016 12:30:13 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/04/airbnb-new-experiences-eventsPhotograph: Crafting MagicPhotograph: Crafting MagicStephanie Theobald2016-12-04T12:30:13ZCharge the 'rich' to feed the poor: Madrid's Robin Hood homeless cafehttps://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/dec/01/madrid-robin-hood-homeless-cafe-charge-rich-feed-poor
<p>Charity restaurant makes money from customers by day to offer homeless people a dignified dining experience by night</p><p>A little before nine o’clock on Tuesday night, Antonio Gutiérrez found himself facing a welcome dilemma. Might he, a waitress asked, have room for a second helping of pudding?</p><p>Gutiérrez, who had already seen off a plate of pasta, a fish stew and a slice of cake, gave it some thought. The option would have been unremarkable for most diners, but for him, it was entirely novel – as was the cafe in which he was eating.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/dec/01/madrid-robin-hood-homeless-cafe-charge-rich-feed-poor">Continue reading...</a>World newsSpainHomelessnessSocial exclusionSocietyEuropeRestaurantsRestaurantsThu, 01 Dec 2016 16:21:36 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/dec/01/madrid-robin-hood-homeless-cafe-charge-rich-feed-poorPhotograph: HandoutPhotograph: HandoutSam Jones in Madrid2016-12-01T16:21:36ZA tour of New Orleans' thriving restaurant scenehttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/29/tour-of-new-orleans-thriving-restaurant-scene
<p>New Orleans has become one of the best places to eat in the US, with a thriving restaurant scene that’s doubled in size since Hurricane Katrina and driven by a new wave of chefs giving classic regional dishes a modern twist </p><p>When chef Isaac Toups was a boy, he would go fishing with his dad in the bayous of Louisiana. What they caught, they ate; father conjuring up a ceviche of the fresh catch by the waterside.</p><p>Toups is from Cajun country, where people have always eaten simple, hearty food such as rice, pork and chicken, shrimps, oysters and crawfish, so it was only natural that he brought those ingredients to his newly opened restaurant in New Orleans, <a href="http://toupssouth.com/">Toups South</a>. But, as one of a new wave of chefs in the city, he is taking tradition and experimenting, using unexpected combinations and unusual seasoning in a way that is consolidating the city’s position as one of the most original culinary centres in America. In 2015 the city was ranked fourth in the <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/sf/style/2015/12/21/the-10-best-food-cities-in-america-ranked/">Washington Post’s 10 best food cities list</a> – ahead of New York, Chicago and Philadelphia. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/29/tour-of-new-orleans-thriving-restaurant-scene">Continue reading...</a>New Orleans holidaysFood and drinkRestaurantsBars and clubsUnited States holidaysNorth and Central America holidaysTravelAmerican food and drinkFood & drinkLife and styleTue, 29 Nov 2016 06:30:41 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/29/tour-of-new-orleans-thriving-restaurant-scenePhotograph: PR Company HandoutPhotograph: PR Company HandoutRichard Holledge2016-11-29T06:30:41ZJordan is spectacular, safe and friendly – so where are the tourists?https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/26/jordan-petra-amman-holiday-jerash-dead-sea
<p>With tourism to the Middle East in decline, visiting Jordan’s mesmerising sights is now a solitary experience. But the silence and emptiness only add to their allure</p><p>“You are safe and sound here,” the gift shop owner said, as he handed over some change. At breakfast, the waiter had been similarly reassuring. “I always tell my guests they are in a very safe place. There might be issues around the corner,” he said, pouring out tea. “But here you are perfectly safe.”</p><p>After a while these repeated soothing asides became rather disconcerting. I hadn’t expected to find Jordan anything other than peaceful, but since the bottom has fallen out of the tourism industry because of the conflict in neighbouring Syria, most people you meet have an urge to emphasise how risk-free a trip here is.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/26/jordan-petra-amman-holiday-jerash-dead-sea">Continue reading...</a>Jordan holidaysMiddle East holidaysTravelCultural tripsSat, 26 Nov 2016 07:00:25 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/26/jordan-petra-amman-holiday-jerash-dead-seaPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoAmelia Gentleman2016-11-26T07:00:25Z10 top tips from our Moscow correspondenthttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/28/10-top-moscow-travel-tips-guardian-correspondent
<p>The Russian capital is full of cultural high points, from galleries and parks to its restaurants, bars and baths. Our writer picks the must-sees plus his own favourites<br></p><p>There’s plenty of art to see in Moscow, but the one unmissable stop is the new wing of the Tretyakov Gallery, in a vast Soviet building on the river embankment. The gallery houses Russian 20th-century art, and the centrepiece of the collection comprises Russian avant garde works. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/28/10-top-moscow-travel-tips-guardian-correspondent">Continue reading...</a>Moscow holidaysRussia holidaysCultural tripsFood and drinkTop 10sEurope holidaysTravelMon, 28 Nov 2016 06:30:22 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/28/10-top-moscow-travel-tips-guardian-correspondentPhotograph: Pola Damonte via Getty Images/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Pola Damonte via Getty Images/Getty ImagesShaun Walker2016-11-28T06:30:22ZThe wild beaches and islands of Western Australia’s Coral Coasthttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/25/western-australia-coral-coast-perth-monkey-mia-denham-islands
<p>Natural wonders are as elemental and ancient as they get on the Coral Coast, north of Perth. And charter flights and Indigenous guides are helping to open up its islands, peninsulas and lagoons</p><p>In October 1616, a Dutch trading ship on its way to Java was blown off course and fetched up on a long, narrow island off the west coast of Australia. The captain probably wasn’t the first European to set foot on Australian soil: but a pewter plate inscribed with his name makes Dirk Hartog’s the first recorded European’s presence.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/25/western-australia-coral-coast-perth-monkey-mia-denham-islands">Continue reading...</a>Western Australia holidaysPerth holidaysAustralia holidaysAustralasia holidaysAdventure travelWildlife holidaysBeach holidaysTravelFri, 25 Nov 2016 06:30:55 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/25/western-australia-coral-coast-perth-monkey-mia-denham-islandsPhotograph: HOPE PRODUCTIONS/Yann Arthus Bertrand / Getty Images/Getty Images/Yann Arthus-BertrandPhotograph: HOPE PRODUCTIONS/Yann Arthus Bertrand / Getty Images/Getty Images/Yann Arthus-BertrandMark Jones2016-11-25T06:30:55ZInside Vietnam's astonishing caves on a local tourhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/20/vietnam-caves-phong-nha-homestays-tours
<p>Since Son Doong, the world’s biggest cave, opened to visitors in 2013, tourism has soared, but locals around Phong Nha are keen to protect the area and promote community homestays and tours</p><p>Uy Jang Jong doesn’t look much like a caveman. Instead of a stocky, hairy figure in animal skins, he is slim and sharply coiffed, in hi-tech sportswear. But this smiley 27-year-old is one of the luminaries of Vietnamese, and therefore world, caving.</p><p>“I discovered that cave,” Uy says casually, indicating a photograph in a cafe in Phong Nha town. “Wow,” we say. “Is it named after you?” “Nah,” comes the reply. “The first one I found is called Uy cave, but I’ve discovered more since.”</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/20/vietnam-caves-phong-nha-homestays-tours">Continue reading...</a>Vietnam holidaysGreen travelAdventure travelClimbing holidaysWalking holidaysAsiaTravelSun, 20 Nov 2016 07:00:30 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/20/vietnam-caves-phong-nha-homestays-toursPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoLiz Boulter2016-11-20T07:00:30Z10 top tips from our Berlin correspondenthttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/21/10-things-i-love-about-berlin-germany-sights-food-drink
<p>Whether you’re in Berlin for history, nightlife or design, Philip Oltermann picks out his favourite venues beyond the tourist haunts – plus a couple of classics </p><p>If Germany’s relationship with bread elsewhere in the country verges on the theological, Berlin is a den of infidelity. Good bakeries are few and far between, and the standard Berlin bread roll tastes of cardboard. But breakfasts at <strong>Cafe Kalwil</strong> are a dream: fresh rolls, flaky croissants, well-cured cold cuts and a sea of jams. Located on Motzstrasse, between philosopher-anthropologist <a href="http://www.rudolfsteinerweb.com/">Rudolf Steiner</a>’s former home and a row of fetish shops, it’s also a perfect spot for appreciating some of the ultra-specific subcultures Berlin still does so well to protect.<br>• <a href="http://www.cafekalwilberlin.de/"><em>cafekalwilberlin.de</em></a></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/21/10-things-i-love-about-berlin-germany-sights-food-drink">Continue reading...</a>Berlin holidaysTravelShort breaksCultural tripsCity breaksClubbingFood and drinkEurope holidaysGermany holidaysTop 10sMon, 21 Nov 2016 06:30:01 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/21/10-things-i-love-about-berlin-germany-sights-food-drinkPhotograph: Torsten Andreas Hoffmann / LOOK-foto/Getty Images/LookPhotograph: Torsten Andreas Hoffmann / LOOK-foto/Getty Images/LookPhilip Oltermann2016-11-21T06:30:01ZThe world's tourism slogans - mappedhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/18/the-worlds-tourism-slogans-mapped
<p>A catchphrase may not say a lot about a country, but some nations know a snappy soundbite when they see one. A holiday website has mapped every slogan in the world – which will tempt you to visit?</p><p>It’s a challenge for even the most creative and blue-sky-thinking marketing person: how do you sum up your amazing (or possibly not-so-amazing) country in a slogan of just four words or so?</p><p>Holiday deals website <a href="https://www.familybreakfinder.co.uk/">FamilyBreakFinder</a> has collected every country’s tourism slogan and plotted them on a new map (although 38 don’t have one, including North Korea and, more surprisingly, Sweden) – an amusing insight into how countries try to sell themselves.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/18/the-worlds-tourism-slogans-mapped">Continue reading...</a>TravelAdvertisingFri, 18 Nov 2016 16:13:37 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/18/the-worlds-tourism-slogans-mappedPhotograph: PR Company HandoutPhotograph: PR Company HandoutJane Dunford2016-11-18T16:13:37Z10 top tips from our Rome correspondenthttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/14/10-things-i-love-about-rome-italy-sights-food-gelato
<p>Rome’s sights, style and food inspire our foreign correspondent. Here, she picks her favourite places, from an authentic gelateria to a locals’ cookery class</p><p>Apart from a visit to the <a href="http://galleriaborghese.beniculturali.it/index.php?it/1/home">museum and gallery</a> in Villa Borghese, tourists don’t tend to flock to any of Rome’s wonderful parks. Of these, Villa Pamphili, the largest public park in Rome, is probably the most beautiful and well-kept, with its wide open vistas and wonderful views of towering pines. Go there for a walk – or a jog – and get a sense of where Romans escape to. Start or end your walk at <a href="http://www.vivibistrot.com/">Vivi Bistrot</a> for a cappuccino or a glass of wine and just soak in Rome’s natural beauty.<br>•<em> </em><em><a href="http://www.villapamphili.it/">villapamphili.it</a></em></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/14/10-things-i-love-about-rome-italy-sights-food-gelato">Continue reading...</a>Rome holidaysFood and drinkItaly holidaysCultural tripsTop 10sEurope holidaysTravelMon, 14 Nov 2016 06:30:40 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/14/10-things-i-love-about-rome-italy-sights-food-gelatoPhotograph: Art Kowalsky/AlamyPhotograph: Art Kowalsky/AlamyStephanie Kirchgaessner2016-11-14T06:30:40ZOn board the Trans-Siberian Railway for a centenary ridehttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/12/trans-siberian-railway-russia-100-centenary
<p>The world’s longest railway line was completed in 1916. Our writer embarks on the seven-day, 5,772-mile journey from Moscow to Vladivostok in the depths of winter when the snowy landscape is at its most beautiful</p><p>Vladivostok railway station, far eastern Russia. The seven-day train journey from Moscow was over and we disembarked slowly into the black night, crunching through the snow and swaying slightly, as if we’d spent too long at sea.</p><p>To Russians, the Trans-Siberian Railway, stretching 5,772 miles from Moscow to Vladivostok (it takes more than nine hours to fly), is merely a commuter train. Businessmen, students and legions of soldiers use it, boarding and disembarking at remote stations to go home, visit family and reach army bases.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/12/trans-siberian-railway-russia-100-centenary">Continue reading...</a>Russia holidaysRail travelEurope holidaysAsiaTravelSat, 12 Nov 2016 07:00:43 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/12/trans-siberian-railway-russia-100-centenaryPhotograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyCaroline Eden2016-11-12T07:00:43Z10 of the world's epic train journeyshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/12/10-worlds-epic-train-journeys-scenic-railways
<p>Whether gliding through the Rockies or labouring up the Andes, our pick of spectacular railway trips gets a green light for all budgets</p><p>Somewhat greedily, the Swiss boast three world-class rail journeys: the Glacier Express, the Bernina Express and, most spectacular of all, the Jungfraubahn. Climbing to over 3,000 metres, the hourly train scoots up the north face of the Eiger before sliding across Mönch and scaling the Jungfrau to pull in at Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. Built in 1912, the line provides the most extraordinary views of the Alps you’ll ever see from a train window over the 50-minute journey. Jungfraujoch station is pretty special too – like something off the set of a science-fiction film.<br>• <em>From £101 return from Kleine Scheidegg, <a href="http://www.seat61.com/jungfrau.htm">discount cards available</a>, </em><em><a href="http://fahrplan.sbb.ch/bin/query.exe/en?ld=std2.a&amp;">sbb</a><a href="http://fahrplan.sbb.ch/bin/query.exe/en?ld=std2.a&amp;seqnr=1&amp;ident=85.03121523.1478791173&amp;OK#focus">.ch</a></em></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/12/10-worlds-epic-train-journeys-scenic-railways">Continue reading...</a>Rail travelCultural tripsAdventure travelShort breaksTop 10sTravelSat, 12 Nov 2016 09:00:45 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/12/10-worlds-epic-train-journeys-scenic-railwaysPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoDixe Wills and Mark Smith (The Man in Seat 61)2016-11-12T09:00:45ZOnce more on to the beach: how Britain’s seaside towns bounced backhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/may/14/once-more-on-to-the-beach-how-britains-seaside-towns-bounced-back
<p>For years our coastal resorts have been in decline. But now bookings are on the rise, and over half of us will go to a British beach this year. So what has changed?</p><p>John Napier plonks a pair of blue sequined stilettos – size nine, vertiginous heels – on the counter of his shop, Cobblers to the Old Town, on the high street in Hastings. These, he says, belong to a loyal customer, a handsome South American man who works in the film industry and whose partner, a New Zealander, is a big noise in oil. They are part of a new affluent gay crowd visiting and even moving to the East Sussex town. Napier, who is 66 and bald with a&nbsp;white goatee beard, believes that his shoe repair business tells the story of the renaissance of the seaside; that the soul – or sole – of Hastings is somehow here. So, he gets the high heels and party shoes, but also fixes split wellies for thrifty fishermen, tap shoes for nifty showbizzers and expensive brogues for&nbsp;hipsters DFL (down from London).</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/apr/27/hastings-pier-reopens-after-restoration-project-heritage-lottery-fund-east-sussex">Hastings Pier reopens following £14.2m restoration project</a> </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/may/14/once-more-on-to-the-beach-how-britains-seaside-towns-bounced-back">Continue reading...</a>Beach holidaysFamily holidaysTravel & leisurePiersBusinessFamilyHastings holidaysUnited Kingdom holidaysEngland holidaysSussex holidaysLife and styleTravelUK newsSat, 14 May 2016 07:00:30 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/may/14/once-more-on-to-the-beach-how-britains-seaside-towns-bounced-backPhotograph: Gareth Fuller/PAPhotograph: Gareth Fuller/PAPeter Ross2016-05-14T07:00:30Z10 of the best Christmas light festivals in the UKhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/10-best-christmas-light-festivals-uk
<p>From dancing lasers to magical gardens, imaginative light shows are being switched on throughout the land. We preview 10 Christmas spectaculars</p><p>The Eden Project has a spectacular new light and sound show this Christmas. Visitors can watch from a viewing platform or walk along the pathways as lasers create a canopy of light, painting the biomes with festive colours, set to a soundscape of music and stories. There are light projections in the Mediterranean biome, too, illuminating the winter planting displays, plus live performances by musicians and choirs from the south-west. The show is the brainchild of light artist Chris Levene, who created the laser tribute to David Bowie at Glastonbury festival, and Marco Perry, Björk’s spatial sound designer. Other festive fun includes ice skating, winter storytelling, festive crafts and meeting Father Christmas and his elves. A baobab rum cocktail (or a smoothie for the kids) will take the chill off.<br>•<em> From £22.50 adult/£12.60 child/£62 family/under-fives free, 5pm-8pm on 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 and 16-23 December, and 5pm-7pm on 27-30 December, </em><a href="http://www.edenproject.com/visit/whats-on/christmas-in-cornwall"><em>edenproject.com</em></a></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/10-best-christmas-light-festivals-uk">Continue reading...</a>Christmas and New Year holidaysDay tripsParks and green spacesUnited Kingdom holidaysTravelEngland holidaysCultural tripsTop 10sChristmasTue, 06 Dec 2016 07:00:05 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/06/10-best-christmas-light-festivals-ukPhotograph: Murdo Macleod for the GuardianPhotograph: Murdo Macleod for the GuardianRachel Dixon2016-12-06T07:00:05Z10 of the best small UK towns for winter breakshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/19/10-best-small-uk-towns-for-winter-christmas-breaks
<p>The historic buildings, modern restaurants, cosy pubs and independent shops of these towns banish any notions of a backwater. And they sparkle in the Christmas season – perfect for a weekend break or day trip<br></p><p>You’d expect the home of the Bakewell pudding to know a thing or two about keeping its visitors cosy and well-fed, and in this attractive market town, you’re never more than a few steps away from a tea room or pub. And to walk off all the cake and ale, the spectacular Peak District is on the doorstep. In the run-up to Christmas, the town will be hosting a traditional Christmas market to coincide with its lights switch-on (26 &amp; 27 Nov) and, new for 2016, a Winter Wonderland event (18-20 Nov and 9-11 Dec, advance tickets £5, under-fives free, <a href="http://www.bakewellshow.org/winter-wonderland">bakewellshow.org</a>), at the Bakewell Showground, with Christmas grotto, craft marquee, reindeer, market stalls, ice rink, funfair and fireworks. For something more sedate, check out the <a href="http://www.haddonhall.co.uk/special-events/christmas-candlelight-tours/">candlelit tours of Haddon Hall</a> (selected dates 7–13 Dec, £22pp), a romantic medieval manor house which has starred in countless films. The nearby Chatsworth Estate (chatsworth.org) always puts on a good display for Christmas, with beautiful Nutcracker-themed decorations in the house, special evening openings and, until 30 Nov, a Christmas market.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/19/10-best-small-uk-towns-for-winter-christmas-breaks">Continue reading...</a>United Kingdom holidaysChristmas and New Year holidaysTravelEngland holidaysWales holidaysScotland holidaysShort breaksFood and drinkChristmasSat, 19 Nov 2016 07:00:01 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/nov/19/10-best-small-uk-towns-for-winter-christmas-breaksPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoPhotograph: Alamy Stock PhotoRhiannon Batten,Rob Penn, Chris Moss, Joanne O'Connor and Robin McKelvie2016-11-19T07:00:01Z10 of the best travel apps … that you'll actually usehttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/jan/02/10-best-travel-apps-free-paid-for
<p>No one needs a smartphone full of gimmicky apps. We’ve rounded up a selection of the best tools for the digital-savvy traveller<br></p><ul><li><strong>’</strong><strong>Appy days: Tell us your favourite travel app in the comments below</strong></li></ul><p>For a long time, whenever I was spotted using Google Maps to navigate London’s public transport network a friend would look over and prod: “Oh, don’t you use Citymapper?” Eventually, I relented. </p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/jan/02/10-best-travel-apps-free-paid-for">Continue reading...</a>Top 10sTravel websitesTravelAppsTechnologySat, 02 Jan 2016 07:00:03 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/jan/02/10-best-travel-apps-free-paid-forPhotograph: JGI/Tom Grill/Getty Images/Blend ImagesPhotograph: JGI/Tom Grill/Getty Images/Blend ImagesWill Coldwell2016-01-02T07:00:03Z10 of the best clubs in Amsterdamhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/18/amsterdam-10-best-clubs
Old newspaper offices, art galleries and avant-garde theatres all double as clubbing venues in Amsterdam, where there's a night to suit everyone from techno heads to surf rockers. <strong>Arun Sood </strong>of Amsterdam Magazine picks his top 10<br /><br /><strong>• <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/amsterdam-city-guide">As featured in our Amsterdam city guide</a></strong><p>Tucked away from the leery crowds prowling around nearby Leidseplein, this clandestine club can be spotted only by the long queues outside its discreet and narrow two-storey building. An intimate space with a great sound system, the club is also associated with the exclusive artists' society <a href="http://www.kring.nl/" title="">De Kring</a>, which is based on the floor below. It all sounds very secretive, but the vibe inside is remarkably laid-back and friendly. On certain nights, such as the eclectic Kiss Escort parties, De Kring opens its doors to the public and the venue effectively becomes a two-in-one club, where DJs are spread across the two floors and play a mixture of underground hip-hop, deep house and soul.<br>• <em>Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 26-1, </em><a href="http://www.clubup.nl" title=""><em>clubup.nl</em></a></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/18/amsterdam-10-best-clubs">Continue reading...</a>Amsterdam holidaysNetherlands holidaysBars and clubsTop 10sShort breaksCity breaksWeekend breaksTravelFri, 17 Jun 2011 23:01:00 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/18/amsterdam-10-best-clubsPhotograph: PRDam Funky ... Club Up's Kiss Escort party, AmsterdamPhotograph: PRDam Funky ... Club Up's Kiss Escort party, AmsterdamArun Sood2011-06-17T23:01:00ZGuide to Patagonia: what to do, how to do it, and where to stayhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/dec/13/guide-to-patagonia-chile-argentina-where-to-stay
<p>Forty years ago this month, Bruce Chatwin visited Patagonia and his subsequent book lit a beacon for the remote region in many travellers’ minds. Chris Moss picks the highlights among its peaks, glaciers and lakes</p><p>For my first forays into Patagonia, in the 1990s, I left behind my guidebooks and travelogues. Travelling light, I was blown away by big, jagged mountaintop glaciers and – more literally – the fierce westerlies that gusted summer long. Between the gawping and the roast lamb dinners, I struggled to make sense of German settlements, Tehuelche place names, Anglophile ranch-owners and ruddy Welsh faces on the coast; crossing the empty steppe, I wondered why any of these would come to such an arid, godforsaken place to make a home.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/dec/13/guide-to-patagonia-chile-argentina-where-to-stay">Continue reading...</a>Patagonia holidaysTravelArgentina holidaysChile holidaysAdventure travelWhale watching holidaysHorse riding holidaysCamping holidaysWalking holidaysSouth America holidaysSat, 13 Dec 2014 06:59:03 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/dec/13/guide-to-patagonia-chile-argentina-where-to-stayPhotograph: /AlamyThe Torres del Paine mountains, Chile Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: /AlamyThe Torres del Paine mountains, Chile Photograph: AlamyChris Moss2014-12-13T06:59:03ZStockholm's top 10 good value restaurantshttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/jul/20/stockholm-top-10-good-value-restaurants
Dining out in Stockholm can be ludicrously pricey, but these stylish restaurants offer a more affordable taste of the city's fine cuisine<p>Just over a year ago, chefs and former colleagues Henrik Norén and Magnus Villnow realised their dream of opening a small restaurant serving simple, honest, almost exclusively local food where <em>grönsaker</em> (vegetables; literally "green things") are the stars. A dish of cauliflower, bacon and cress, for example, uses cauliflower five different ways: puréed with brown butter, roasted florets, raw shaved root, raw leaves and pickled stem. Lunch is chalked up on a blackboard daily with four choices (100 SEK/£9 each). Dinner is currently served once a week, on Thursdays.<br>• <em>Four-course lunch for £43. Sankt Eriksgatan 87, </em><a href="http://grorestaurang.se/" title=""><em>grorestaurang.se</em></a><em>, +46 8643 4222 </em></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/jul/20/stockholm-top-10-good-value-restaurants">Continue reading...</a>Stockholm holidaysRestaurantsSweden holidaysFood and drinkTravelScandinavian food and drinkRestaurantsFood & drinkSun, 20 Jul 2014 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/jul/20/stockholm-top-10-good-value-restaurantsPhotograph: Morgan Ekner/PRFresh produce at Lux dag för dag on the Stockholm island of Lilla Essingen. Photograph: Morgan EknerPhotograph: Morgan Ekner/PRFresh produce at Lux dag för dag on the Stockholm island of Lilla Essingen. Photograph: Morgan EknerKathryn Good2014-07-20T05:00:00Z10 of the best museums in Berlinhttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/aug/17/top-10-museums-berlin-city-guides
Berlin resident and travel writer <strong>Rory MacLean </strong>chooses some of the city's most impressive museums, whether you want to taste life in the former DDR or admire works by world famous artists<br /><br /><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/berlin-city-guide" title=" As featured in our Berlin city guide"><strong>• As featured in our Berlin city guide</strong></a><p>Of all Berlin's artists, no one captured the pain suffered in and exported from this place more than Käthe Kollwitz. The intense intimacy of her work revealed residents' hopes and horrors, as well as the unspoken pains of the poor, in images and forms which – 60 years after her death – still appear to burst from the artist's heart. This privately owned museum, just off the Ku'damm, includes hundreds of her finest drawings, etchings and sculptures. A passageway connects the museum to the neighbouring <a href="http://www.literaturhaus-berlin.de/" title="">Literaturhaus</a>, with one of the city's most civilised cafes.<br><em>• Fasanenstrasse 24, +49 30 882 5210, </em><a href="http://www.kaethe-kollwitz.de/museum-en.htm" title=""><em>kaethe-kollwitz.de</em></a><em>, adults €6, concessions €3. Open daily 11am-6pm</em></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/aug/17/top-10-museums-berlin-city-guides">Continue reading...</a>Berlin holidaysTop 10sGermany holidaysEurope holidaysTravelArtArt and designArchitecturePablo PicassoPaul KleeAlberto GiacomettiHenri MatisseWed, 17 Aug 2011 10:07:00 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/aug/17/top-10-museums-berlin-city-guidesPhotograph: AlamyBerlin's Kathe Kollwitz Museum. Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyBerlin's Kathe Kollwitz Museum. Photograph: AlamyRory MacLean2011-08-17T10:07:00ZTop 10 budget restaurants and bistros in Parishttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/feb/05/top-10-budget-restaurants-bistros-paris
Paris is home to some of the world's finest – and priciest – restaurants. But a new breed of affordable places to eat means the budget traveller needn't feel hard done by. We pick 10 places where you can dine on excellent French cuisine for €20 a head<p>Eating on a budget in Paris often used to leave you feeling like the spectre at the feast, or rather sadly deprived of the city's gastronomic excellence. To be sure, there were always a few wallet-friendly French places where the food was better than average, plus some great ethnic options, but cheap eats rarely equated with seriously good food. Happily, a new generation of innovative restaurateurs are rebooting the French capital's offer for pennywise travellers, with food that's good enough even if you aren't counting your centimes. Oh, and in case you were wondering, <a href="http://www.restaurant-chartier.com/www/visit/" title="">Chartier</a>, probably Paris's most famous budget restaurant, soldiers on as a place people go to get a meal for a tenner (euros, bien sur), just because you can.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/feb/05/top-10-budget-restaurants-bistros-paris">Continue reading...</a>Paris holidaysRestaurantsBudget travelTravelFrance holidaysRestaurantsLife and styleFood & drinkTop 10sFrench food and drinkWed, 05 Feb 2014 06:00:00 GMThttps://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/feb/05/top-10-budget-restaurants-bistros-parisPhotograph: AlamyChartier, probably Paris's most famous budget restaurant, opened in 1896. Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyChartier, probably Paris's most famous budget restaurant, opened in 1896. Photograph: AlamyAlexander Lobrano2014-02-05T06:00:00Z